My dad lives in downtown Vancouver and he owns one of “those” dogs. You know, the kind you fear passing as a dog owner. The kind that looks like it’s about to snap at any moment and lunge out to try to bite your dog.

For our stories sake, it could be any number of breeds, all of whom have a bad rep, but just to make matters worse, she IS a pitbull… not just “kind of looks like a pitbull” and gets lumped in with them, is one.

Her name is Isla and she’s a rescue.

Now, there’s a million stories out there where pitbull are lovely, warm, affectionate pets who get along well with other dogs. This isn’t one of them. Isla hates dogs. And being that she’s a rescue, it’s impossible to know exactly where that came from.

It’s a good thing my dad’s stubborn.

He’s gone above and beyond to rehabilitate her: he takes her to training twice a week, dog therapy, swimming therapy. He works hard, harder than most dog owners at putting measures in place to make sure she stays safe. That other dogs are safe FROM her.

She’s NEVER off leash, she’s always under control and he’s learned countless ways to shift negative behaviors and refocus her when she’s walked to avoid conflict.

And just so you don’t think we’re completely biased, we haven’t always been supportive of his bizarre decision to get a high maintenance dog at 55. We (his children) owned 6 dogs between us that all played well in a group without a lot of supervision, so the addition of this wildcard wasn’t a popular choice. She STILL cant be around a lot of those dogs, which creates all sorts of challenging situations at family functions.

BUT, here’s the thing… meet this dog for 5 minutes and you know she really does deserve another chance, a real chance, a – pardon the pun – fighting chance.

And that’s what he’s fought to give her.

And then there’s you.

Cesar Milan.

I get that you’re really proud of the fact that you got your dog as a puppy, trained it to “sit”, maybe even “stay”, and (loosely) “come” and now you feel like the dog whisperer reincarnate. You must consider yourself quite the success given ALL the obstacles you’ve had to overcome. And oh, what an animal lover.

But I just don’t GET you. I really don’t. If you really loved animals, your animal, the way you claim to by training them to “sort of” heel, you’d respect it enough to have it on leash. You’d respect my dad’s dog enough to not put it in a situation where IT might hurt your dog and be put to sleep.

Now, I’m not talking about dog-designated beaches, or off leash dog parks, my dad wouldn’t DREAM of taking Isla there (that’s ALL your domain), I’m talking about the downtown core, where tight sidewalks already demand a certain amount of respect for pedestrians and other dogs alike.

But, not you. There YOU are weaving your way through busy sidewalks with your dog several meters ahead of you, completely free to do as it will.

And to add insult to injury, when it approaches my dad and Isla and he asks you to get your dog under control, you try to justify your position and then pick a fight with him.

MY DAD?! The only person who is actually concerned about your dogs safety at the moment?

YOU and the so many people LIKE you are the reason that dogs get put to sleep. And you’re not in short supply.

“Mine’s friendly.”

That comment, the absolution and stupidity of it makes me want to slap people. I own three dogs who DO like other dogs, and when someone yells that at me while their dog charges at mine who are on leash, I seriously question whether they should own pets.

Con-grat-u-f$&#-ing-lations. You sort of respect animals…

…just not enough to respect the fact that not all had great upbringings and socialization and that you’re putting both yours and theirs at risk by wanting to prove what a hero you are.

“Why is it my fault that you cant control your dog?!”

So what you’re saying is that all dogs that show any kind of adverse behavior should be rounded up and put to sleep?! They shouldn’t be allowed to walk down a street or path, where the rules are that dogs be ON leash without having you break the rules and claim it’s their fault?!

I can’t believe that all the dog lovers out there actually think that way, especially when they plaster their Facebook with all the sad cases of the dogs the want your help to find homes for.

My dad TOOK one of those dogs. And he fights for her daily.

So I’ll just say this…

I’ll never meet you Cesar, but to all the people LIKE you, who go home with tales of the obnoxious dogs that tried to hurt their babies who were “off leash minding their own business,” you are NOT the good guys.

And to all the people like my dad, who are just trying to give dogs like Isla a second chance…

I know it’s a struggle, but it’s worth it.

(This goes without saying, but the reverse of this scenario is also true. Aggressive dogs should ALWAYS be leashed.)

If your dog is a dick, muzzle it or keep it home! I recently ran into one of these a-hole dogs (and owners) out hiking in I guess what would be considered a gray area… not designated leash on or free but many people hike without leashing their dogs. Kind of the point of getting out into the woods… Long story short my dog is super nice and dogs always greet each other when I’m out hiking. This couple got extremely pissed at me for my dog being off leash and wanting to go say hi to their POS dog. My reply is simple, muzzle it, keep it on the sidewalks or keep it home! Just becuase your dog is a dick doesn’t mean the rest of us should suffer or have to accomodate. That was your choice to take on that challenge or create a monster yourself. The good dogs don’t need to be restricted because of it.

I’m not sure where you are but in my area there are no grey areas – either there is a leash law or there isnt. Yet for some reason many of the leash required trails have off-leash dogs. Even when I don’t have my dog aggressive dog with me it is a problem to suddenly cone around a bend and be greeted by an off leash dog.

My dog is essentially the exact same as the dog in this blog,rescue pit who loves humans butis terrified of other dogs. We are working on it but had a major setback last year when an off-leash dog viciously attacked him while we were walking. (Thankfully the owner came along and did pay the vet bills but the trauma has been so much.) Mydog isn’t looking to attack any dig, but if I’m walking him on a leash and an off leash dog comes up on him he feels threatened.There is no reason that I should not be able to take mydog on leash required trails just because he isn’t good with other dogs. Dog parks are there for dog interactions and hikes are for exercise. I don’t understand why leashing your dog during exercise would be bad. If you want your dog to run free please take the dog to a place for that. But again, I am never happy to suddenly have a dog in my space with no ow ner in sight or close enough to do something if there was a problemwhile I am out hiking (even without my dog. Putting your dog in a leash isn’t suffering it is good manners.

No. You were in the wrong. It is not good manners for your dog to suddenly go up to another dog, especially if that dog is leashed. My dog was attacked by an off-leash leash dog andnow is very reactive to off-leash dogs who just come up.

NO. My dog doesn’t need to be greeted by your dog. If your dog comes up without an invitation, YOUR dog is in the wrong. If your dog doesn’t assault my dog with inappropriate ‘friendliness’ your dog will be fine.

Just like you can’t walk out and about and hug and kiss people you don’t know and not expect to get punched in the face. Just because your dog isn’t barking and growling when it invades another dog’s space, doesn’t mean your dog is innocent.

Pc,
You should have some idea that a lot of dogs don’t want strange dogs running up to them. Some have personal space issues and would happily meet other dogs under the right circumstances.
Show some respect and keep your off leash dog under control i.e heel close to you when passing another dog not running up to that dog ‘because all dogs should say hi’.
And your dog may be “super nice” but it should also respect the personal space of other dogs and you should ask permission from the owner before your dog is even in the range of the other dog attacking.
Respect goes both ways.

You can have your dog off lead no problem as long as you have control of it. Not all people and dogs want YOUR dog in their face. If you can’t stop your dog going up to other people or dogs that’s you’re problem, no one else’s.

If your off leash dog approaches a leashed dog with ANYTHING other than an at your side, heel position, sit when you stop, your off leash dog is not under control. If you dog is not under control, it should be on a leash, except in places specifically designed for off leash activities. Bet you don’t pick up after it either.
No, I do not have a reactive dog. I have an obedience trained Whippet.

Um. A dog is not a “dick”. They behave like dogs, and genetics, as well as experiences, affect that behavior. Most..the vast majority are fear-based in their “dick”ness. Keeping them home is not going to help them. Why do you care that the dog or owner is an a-hole if the dog is leashed?? It’s nunya!! Yeah, I have let my dog off leash in hiking, but you know what? He’s TRAINED! He has an extremely reliable recall, will drop on a dime at any distance, will not go pay attention to other dogs, or bother anyone. IF you can do that, then fine, unleash the dog. WHY should they muzzle their dog?? You still subjected the dog to intrusion, and rudeness. Dogs don’t all have to go say hi and be happy nicey nicey. They don’t all have to meet. Suffer? YOU are the POS! Mine is an intact working dog, and even your “friendly” dogs can take issue and attack. So if you want the entitlement of unleashing your dog, make damn sure you put in the work and TRAIN.

What you just wrote shows your ignorance on the subject matter. You dog is ill mannered if he approaches other dogs while off leach. he might be nice, but a well mannered dog dose not do that. and you suggestion that all dogs who are not like your dog should be muzzled or stay at home shows that you are not an animal lover. I have a rescued dog who was badly abused and dose not trust people or dogs. i adopted him and gave him another chance, and i am not about keep my dog caged so people like you can feel an ego boost by letting their dogs off each to feel in control. my dog minds his own buisness so yours should too. just like you as a person should assume that not all people want to meet you and be friends with you, you should assume the same thing for dogs too. people like us who changed their whole life to accomodate a troubled animal and save him from death should not have to suffer because of people like you.

I love Cesar Milan but I HAAAAATE people like this. So on point everyone needs to read this. The big difference with Cesar, obviously, is he doesn’t walk dogs without a leash. And his dogs, when he takes them to the wilderness, unleashed in the open trails, are well trained and under the control of a trainer. Random dog owners: Not leading your dog is the most irresponsible thing you can do. For my kids, my dog, and lastly YOUR dog and liability.

It took you only 4 sentences to contradict yourself. Cesar “doesn’t walk dogs without a leash” and then, “his dogs, when he takes them to the wilderness, unleashed…” Cesar Milan has caused the deaths of many pets. By being an under-educated “trainer” who uses outdated methods that trainer who keep up with science would never choose because they HARM dogs.

Prove it! Post your citations because as far as I can find after doing a 2 hour search on 3 different search engines, I can find NO stories anywhere that show Cesar Milan responsible for ANY dogs death!

There are numerous accounts where owners had to euthanize their dogs after Cesar left because his methods didn’t work. In some cases, his methods made the situation worse (but they won’t show those on television). To be fair, these dogs were going to be euthanized without Cesar’s help, so he was a last resort and, unfortunately, didn’t change the outcome for the dog (but it makes for great television, I guess). However, this goes to show Cesar’s methods don’t work except in isolated cases (and that speaks more for the dog than Cesar). It’s well-recognized by people who are heavily engrossed in the dog world that Cesar’s methods are archaic and often ineffective. His heart is in the right place, but he’s doing more harm than good. Not only in what he does directly, but also in what he does indirectly when uneducated owners use his methods without understanding how to properly use them (and in some cases, there ISN’T a proper way to use them).

His show had a reboot because of the negative publicity and bad reputation he was developing from educated, experienced trainers speaking out against his methods and the evidence they presented that there is a better way to rehabilitate dogs. There are also numerous behind-the-scenes videos on YouTube of Cesar being bit, dogs not responding to his methods and becoming injured, and even a few cases where dogs have died (there isn’t a video of this last one, but there was a lawsuit against his training facility because a dog died from being overworked on a treadmill while wearing a choker).

I used to like watching Cesar’s show. My friend and I would get together every week to watch it and discuss what we saw him doing. I found it entertaining even though I didn’t agree with a lot of his methods. I stopped watching it after a few months because it was upsetting to see him use negative and sometimes dangerous methods on a dog that would’ve responded well to more updated way of training. I’d like to be able to speak more favorably of him, but I can’t.

Enjoy his show if you want, but please don’t use his methods without consulting a professional trainer. A lot of people have gotten bit because they didn’t understand what they were doing and when it was appropriate (if at all) to use a given training technique.

Cesar doesn’t know shit. Recently he let a dog off leash and it attacked a farm animal and he knew the dog was aggressive to the farm animal. That’s training? no training is counter condition, where you stay 25 feet away walking your dog praising and treating and decreasing the distance over time. Please if you think he is so great, look for his videos on you tube where he hangs dog by their collars. that’s ;not training, that isbrute force. He has been bitten over and over, so if he is so great at reading canine body language, why is he constantly bitten. ive worked with dogs for20 years, never been bit. why? because I know how to read their language and I never push them past their threshold. I watched the videos once and that was the last time, made me sick to my stomach, and both videos I saw he was attacked. He pushed the dogs past what they could handle and he deserved to be bit.

Why are you rescuing a dog then?Get a puppy. I have Watched Ceaser and read his books. The man knows more than you think. Most of the time people who are having trouble with their dog can’t accept the fact that they are the problem not the dog. He has worked with Rottweilers and pit Bulls and did the job. Both are powerful breeds and need some one special to own one. I personally love my Rottweilers the perfect dog.

Look at his videos, its not my opinion, its facis, watch him hang dogs by their collar, and et bit watch him push a young lab beyond his threshold and blood goes flying when the dog has had enough. If a trainer came to my home to wok with my dog and he had numerous bites and scars, use common sense, you int acquire those bites unless you are not reading the dogs body language. The video for him letting an aggressive dog off leash to go after a farm animal and tear its ear, my god how stupid are you? He knew the dog was aggressive. Ever wonder why he doesn’t do a follow up show two weeks later to show how well the dog is doing? He can’t, the dog has been euthanized because many people are incapable of using his force methods. And many dont wan to hurt their dogs in the name of training. He’s nothing more than a tv personality

Actually he hasn’t. He’s just charming and knew the right people at the right time, got a tv show, instant authority. He really doesn’t know a lot. He’s had no training, he uses outdated methods. Most real trainers, with actual training, know he’s really not all that great a dog trainer.

Cesar Milan is the Ebola virus of the dog training world. He is a dangerous, toxic virus and his abuse of dogs is often fatal. People who claim to love their dogs while “training” using this fraud’s methods are either not very bright or not terribly truthful.

Me too! My pit was Caesar trained, but ALWAYS on a leash and wore a harness!! I hate people who let their dogs roam and then I have to protect mine. Listen if you have your dog on a leash you are following the “leash law” if an off leash dog attacks yours you are not responsible it’s the owner who is off leash that is responsible. I luv pits! I hate reckless owners. That woman’s DAD is a great dog owner and I’m sure that dog is so happy t

“The big difference with Cesar, obviously, is he doesn’t walk dogs without a leash. ” — He absolutely DOES walk dogs without a leash … like the Great Dane that he had “cured” of its aggression, which attacked a man while CM was WALKING IT OFF-LEASH.

Cesar Milan is a bad dog trainer because he does not understand dog behavior. Almost all of the times he has been bitten, it was his fault. Dogs do not start with bitting unless taught too. They give lots of signals indicating they are not happy. And the ones who do just start bitting were punished for growling which is a warning and should be taken as such.

Yep, he actually walks Junior without a leash constantly. Any recent appearance on tv, and his show, he is NEVER on leash. Course, his dog is very suppressed, if you know body language (not a fan, sorry), so he’s “controlled”. Junior is barely trained, though. His “Service dog” doesn’t even know a retrieve, and his recall is also a sorta thing. So…

I am not against walking your dog without a leach. but a dog owner wants to do so then he needs to be sure that his dog minds his buisness and that he dose not approach other people, children or dogs unless invited to do so. or the owner should be able to control his dog in any situation even from far away. If the dog is not like that, then it’s better if he is on a leach

Why walk a known aggressive dog down town in a big city where It will for sure encounter another dog, and people who are afraid of it? The off leash dog wasn’t in the right either, but when you are in a city dogs could be off lease at their house, protecting it, then what? The irresponsibility started with the person walking an known aggressive dog down town….if you live in a city then maybe you shouldn’t rescue aggressive dogs….move to a place with more open spaces and less people.

I’m not sure you’re catching the difference. Most dogs, even fear reactive ones, can pass another dog and not respond. It’s when a dog is off leash and rushing into its face that it becomes a problem. The point of this article is that a person’s right to have their dog illegally running free in a major city ISNT more important than a fear aggressive dogs right to be able to pee.

Well said exactly the point, leach law is the law weather dog is or is not aggressive he had every rights to walk her, if he kepted his on leash it would still be here today, I look at this way unleashed dog was at fault, u nor another animal has any rights to go contact to another, just like human beings, never trust another unless u know personally

I disagree about the retractable leashes. True, no one should use them unless they know how, and have practiced using them at home but I’ve had more cuts and burns trying to manage the slack from a 6′ lead. The retractable TAPE not string, style allows me to lock in at 2′, 4′, or give our girl a little more if the circumstances allow it. Used correctly they can be an invaluable tool to make life with a reactive, anxious dog that much better.

Kerstin, my smaller dog almost lost her leg from one of those retractable leashes. The tapes are thin and sharp-edged. AND people tend to let their dogs too far out front and can’t control them or get them back out of danger quickly enough. I’ve seen way more dogs get in trouble with other dogs and traffic issues because of walking them on that extended leash without enough time to get the dogs back close to them. I also saw a kid lose his dog altogether because the dog was far enough out to pull hard and take the kid down.
Not only that, but it’s one hand that you can’t use at all for anything else. No looping the handle around your wrist to grab another dog, grab your own with both hands, or even brace yourself if you fall on ice without losing the dog…
Most dog handlers won’t go near those.

A 6 foot leash is much more practical than a retractable leash. The only time I have used a retractable is when I am at the beach with my dog, or when I am in my backyard taking him to potty (when he was younger, now I never use one). I work at a vet and it is ridiculous when people come in with those leashes, you can’t control the dog at all. I had many time when I would walk my dog downtown in a big city and he is very well behaved, but when a tiny yorkie is running up to his heels from behind him because the owner behind me lets the dog run 16 feet ahead of them… now that is annoying!

In my neighbourhood, I have even had to screech to a halt when driving my car on the street, because someone with a retractable leash was on one side of the street, and their dog was on the other. Ridiculous behaviour, and dangerous for both dog and human!

I would love to have the opportunity to meet with or speak with your father. What a wonderful human being he is. I also have rescued a Redline dog. But mine is not a pitbull mine is a Brazilian Mastiff and he has issues! Other people just don’t understand that they need to stay away. I do what I can to keep him under control he is never out of my sight or off leash but other people just think he’s so Beautiful They just have to try and touch him. Apparently every postal carrier on the planet is an Axe Murderer and my dog is determined to rid the world of them. And he is so big and so strong that I can’t contain him even on leash when one of those Vehicles Drives By. I have a really hard time finding ways to redirect his attention and stop this bad behavior. I take my hat off to your father.

Con-grat-u-f$&#-lations for you and your dad, didnt know him and his dog were the only things we should care about in the city. Maybe put a muzzle on on it so us off leash “DICKS” can walk about the city in peace.

The bylaws even refer to dicks like you, Jake. Off leash dogs in areas that are designated on leash areas cause far more problems than well controlled on leash dogs. Your irresponsible behaviour could result in tragedy.

This could happen with ANY dog, not just ones identified as aggressive. Also, what about pedestrians that aren’t used to being around dogs. I have a “friendly” dog as well and ALWAYS walk him on a leash for HIS protection. Do the responsible thing and walk your dog on a leash for EVERYONE’s safety. My gosh! A comment like that is more about you and your laziness and not about your dog.

No, the point is that if you just obeyed the law, everything would be fine. Especially, as this article indicates, when your dog is too far away from you to do anything when it runs at another dog. Having your dog off leash is selfish and entitled behavior, not that of the guy who’s minding his own business and following the rules. If you care about the safety of your pet, you would do well to consider people like the author and their dad.

in the uk by law all dogs must be on a leash when walking along a public highway. There is nothing wrong with this man walking his dog down town she is leashed and he has worked with her and she is under control. I own two akitas one of whom is a rescue she is fine with other dogs but if a dog comes and pushes its face in hers she isn’t going to stand around and let it be disrespectful, she is always on the lead unless competing. I too live in a city but in the UK and I have just as much right to walk my dog down the public highway as anybody else. The person who is irresponsible is the one with his dog off lead any number of scenarios could play out including the loose dog running into the road and causing an accident

You missed the point entirely. His dog iS leashed and under control. If you want your dog to run unencumbered by a leash or laws requiring such maybe YOU should move out if the city to a remote location where you aren’t going to encounter other people & dogs.

His dog has every right to walk downtown. His dog is leashed and fine. I have a fear reactive dog and this is how she learned to not be fearful walking with other people around.
I am completely offended that you do not think a responsible dog owner (like myself) has the right to walk with their dog in public. Wow.
I can not tell you how many dogs run and charge us on our walks. Not leashed or contained in their own yard. My dog is leashed. Am i not allowed to walk anywhere now? Because there are loose dogs scaring my dog…?
Maybe I just cant ever walk her on a leash anywhere?
Wow.

A dog is allowed to go on a walk when controlled by their owner. Perhaps people should stop assuming that because it is a dog you have the right to approach it as you like, or your dog can do the same. Animals need to be respected the same as people, would you run up to a person you don’t know and invade their space? Would you like it if someone did that to you. Same goes for dogs. I teach my daughter to have great respect for animals, and that means not approaching any animal without first asking permission of the owner and then allowing that animal to sniff her hand and if it feels comfortable to allow the interaction. It should be the same between dogs. The responsibility is on each owner, the one with the dog on the leash was doing the right thing, the off leash owner in the city core was not.

Just wanted to throw in there…that hand smelling thing, not so good. It’s creepy the way most do it, like just sticking their hand in the dog’s face, gingerly usually, or too obnoxiously. But most dogs don’t really dig a hand waving right in their face lol. Teach to read body language, when a dog shows friendly interest. Loose body, open mouth, happy expression. I hold out an open palm, to see if the dog comes to me, and then pet the chest area, or shoulders. Many dogs don’t like the top of their head being pet. So it’s more respectful, I think, to do that way. I’m amazed at how many children rush up to my German Shepherd (who can see them as prey, and his arousal raises) and are squealing DOGGIEEEE!!!! being super excited, and invading space. So glad you are teaching your kid to greet well 🙂

Bob, I live in a rural area with open spaces and far less people but it doesn’t matter. I take my dogs to places where dogs are required to be on leash (state forests, etc.) and am constantly accosted by off leash dogs charging mine. My dogs are excellent with people, including children but they are of a breed that can be dog aggressive so they are ALWAYS on leash when not on my property. I’m not sure why you would suggest that anyone who is following the laws/rules should be held accountable for situations that are caused by those NOT obeying the laws/rules?
The fact that people can’t obey the laws is something I no longer consider my problem and I carry strong pepper spray and wouldn’t hesitate to use it to avoid a fight. Thankfully, where I live the very fact that my dogs are on leash and others not puts the law solidly on my side.

If you live downtown and need to walk your dog, are you saying I am not allowed to walk my dog ON LEASH in a downtown area? Are you serious? This is how you can help train your dog to get past it’s fears – learn to be near others (people, dogs, loud noises, busy streets, etc). Clearly you are not a dog owner.

I would like to ask where a “known aggressive dog” should get their exercise if not allowed to be walked down town?
I only ask as I have a dog that will sometimes act aggressively, not always, but he can. I walk my dog at 4:30 am because I work early, but then he doesn’t get any socialization. I used to take him to off leash dog parks as the ones in Kelowna have a big side and a small side and he is good when on the small side. However, I have moved to Campbell River now and the ONE dog park is for both sizes… I tried it but I can’t guarantee which dogs are coming. So for everyone’s safety, I do not go there any more. I’ve tried the trails… And hen there are off leash dogs. I’ve tried the sea walk, and there are other leashed dogs and bicycles… Should I just put my dog down since there isn’t a proper place to walk him?

That’s a ridiculous suggestion. Really. Maybe you missed the part stating that Isla’s Papa has ‘countless ways to shift negative behaviors and refocus her when she’s walked to avoid conflict.’ Long-story-short: The leash laws exist for everyone; “friendly” dogs included.

Wow… that was pretty ignorant. I have an American bulldog rescue who is dog aggressive. She is a perfect angel most of the time and even lives with a cat and a dog that she’s fine with. I keep her on leash any time she is outside. I live in a very tiny town btw. I’ve had two incidents where neighbors let their small dog out with no leash while my dog was out on her leash. The first dog ended up with a bloody ear the second escaped injury due to me tackling my dog. I know my dog is dog reactive and I take precautions other owners should take precautions too. I’d never let either of my dogs the reactive rescue or my calm one walk up to a dog they didn’t know that’s stupid. Leaving your dog off leash is stupid no matter if your dog is aggressive or not. Some people’s dogs have issues. That’s why there are leash laws. If people would follow the leash law there would be far less problem. Telling people not to rescue dogs in the city because there are other dogs is about the dumbest thing I ever heard. Living in the country is no better if people are to ignorant to keep their dogs properly controlled.

So how are you to rehabilitate said aggressive dog? You can’t rehab from the comfort of home. You have to get out there and make sure that they are exposed and when they don’t react reward and keep moving the threshold up. That is how true rehabilitation happens.

Fearful aggressiveness often comes from the dog in question being leashed, walking calmly and then and unleashed dog runs up and gets in their face. I have no problem walking Theo on Queen St in Toronto, until some jerk let’s their dog run up unannounced. You might not understand dog behaviour very much, I think sir.

All dogs need to be given different experiences ….to make them a more rounded individual. I take my puppies to the bus station to see and hear the big noisy (air brakes) buses. To see lots of people and maybe be petted by some of these people. All in a dog’s training….so it’s not afraid of these things. Common sense …….which too many people are devoid of sadly.

Bob, I can’t speak for this owner but I can speak for myself. If I have my dog on a leash and can control him I should have the right to walk anywhere that is not a designated off leash area. It is just the kind of entitlement that you show in your comment that make it difficult for me or others with reactive dogs to live anywhere. I would truly ask that you educate yourself on canine behavior before you make blanket statements.

Hmmm…. perhaps because he’s WORKED with the dog extensively so the dog won’t react, which you would know if you bothered to read and understand this post. What is that BS about “not rescuing aggressive dogs”- oh, that’s right, you sound like yet one more dogsbite cultist nutjob with that hateful remark. Have you ever heard of Michael Vick and HIS dogs, all of whom had been through hell and all but a couple of whom were adopted: the rest became good family pets, therapy and rescue dogs and several earned their canine good citizenship awards. I’ve known a number of dog aggressive dogs, and most of it starts with stupid irresponsible owners. One of my neighbors had a Chow who hated other dogs, but he was able to control his dog and walked on the other side of the street with his dog whenever he saw another dog coming. Another, on the other hand, who owns a mastiff, is as stupid and irresponsible as they come, allowing his teenagers to walk a dog too large and powerful for them to handle at all. The dog has attacked, or attempted to attack, mine three different times. THEY can’t control him, but I’ve been able to stop the attack once and keep him from attacking as he was upon us twice because, unlike them, I do know how to talk to and control dogs and don’t lose my heads. What burned me the last time was that the daughter admitted that they know there’s a problem (once she caught up to him where we were!) because he isn’t neutered. GREAT! As we talked, the dog started lying at her feet, proving what I already knew: he’s a good dog but gets no direction from the jerks he lives with. I even saw their father drive off with the dog in the back of their pickup one day, and naturally, the pickup had no way to hold the dog in. This woman’s father is not irresponsible, but people like the neighbor I described, and off leash dog walkers like the one in the story, certainly are. They are a danger to their pets and others, and the people who own them.

So well said! We never let our baby off leash unless it’s designated and even then I’m questionable because she can be weird for no reason so we keep her close. People just don’t get it — lovely post!!

I live in Vancouver too and my dog is also a rescue and also very fear-reactive (to both dogs and people) so I know exactly what your dad is going through. Kudos to him for doing such an amazing job for Isla! Thanks for speaking out!

Bravo and well said. I have a large American Bulldog who loves people and to some extent other dogs. We also have two mini dach hounds that she loves like they were her own pups. When I walk her its always on leash and yes she does have an issue with those unleashed dogs who come running up to her either aggressively or to stick their nose up her butt. I am always concern about how she is going to react and it irritates me that the unleashed dogs owner who’s dog is not under control always gives me the dirty look when she reacts in a negative way. What I have to say to them! if you love your dog, keep them leashed and under control, There’s a reason for a leash law.

You should try skijoring when loose dogs are on the trail. They just don’t get it that dogs like to chase a fast moving skier/dog team! They expect my competitive dog to stop and friendly greet their loose dog. Sorry my dog is focused, if their loose dog is in the way there will be a problem. Please if you see a skijorer or dog sled team please call your loose dog to your side. It is not cute to let your loose dog greet my working team.

A great piece ! One thing though—Cesar Milan would NEVER take a dog out on the street without a leash ! We watched many of the shows and I have read two of his books — he is a leash man on the sidewalks.
I know too well the people you are talking about…. but maybe go a bit easier on Cesar himself —he has been slagged vigorously over the last few years !

I wasn’t using Cesar (which I spelled wrong…oops) as a literal example of this guy… I was trying to use him as a figuratice example of what people THINK they’re emulating when they get up to these crazy antics.

Your sarcasm and pronounced lack of respect for CM in your attempt at using him as an example of poor ownership is blatantly obvious. His name should have never been used. How irresponsible for one so fired up about the irresponsibility of others.

I’ve said this before, but I’ll say it again because you seem pretty upset about CM… SO….I’m using his name neither positively or negatively just using it because he’s KNOWN as a dog trainer… and so many of these off leash “experts” THINK they’re dog trainers. If you are a dog trainer, kudos. 99.9% of you commenting aren’t. So, let’s try this again.

I agree with you! One of Cesar’s biggest things is making sure the dog he is walking on a leash is not in front of him and always in control. I grew up with an aggressive dog and even when we tried to plan a walking excursion at a time when no one else would be out, it was very stressful encountering untrained off leashed “super friendly” dogs with no respect for her personal space. We managed to prepare her for those scary situations by training her with a key word. Whenever we say focus her eyes immediately find whoever said it and stares ignoring everything else until she gets her treat! It took a long time but now she is so conditioned she ignores the other dogs until they leave.

I have a rescue who has been labelled “reactive” I have spent countless hours with her as well and have learned to refocus her. The thing is Java knows that she shouldn’t be doing what she is doing – growling and lunging at the end of a leash was her thing but we go through the calming and refocusing routines and we’re usually ok. Off leash dogs make me very nervous and that’s not fair to Java either. She has come a long way and she tries but there is just so much a reactive dog can take! I feel for Isla especially if she looks like a pit bull which doesn’t help. Java is deceptive she looks very sweet but looks are deceiving! If I saw Caesar coming down the street on his skateboard with that pack of dogs I would head for the hills!

I’m in a similar boat to you Maggie. We rescued a dog who is lead reactive; we’re still not sure whether it’s real fear or not, but the key issue is he is very big and strong. And he will lunge and bark if he sees another dog – even if they are on the lead. But for me to train him and work with him to expose him to those situations to bring him down, we have to walk him through urban areas as well…and he is getting better all the time, but we still get the dirty looks, even when I have him under control. And being big, he will always get the blame, even when two of them rush up to him, one the front and one the back – which happened to us a few days ago. We were told off, because the other dogs ‘never attack anyone’…but they frightened the living daylight out of ours and he reacted (obviously).

What a brilliant rant. I aplored you and your dad for giving dog’s, regardless of breed a second chance of life. I have a very friendly 4yr old resue siberian husky who loves other dogs and kids, but we are still very careful and weary of the people and dogs that we approach on our walks. And my boy is always on the leash, I couldn’t catch him if he wasn’t! So well done to you and your dad. Keep doing what you’re doing and keep all dogs safe and happy. Xx

This is excellent! Thank you!
I used to have one of “those kind” of pups too when I lived in Montreal and always had to watch out for him and crazy stupid people with “friendly” off leash dogs…I hear you, loved my boy till his ripe old age (siberian husky btw) and still have huskies now… We live in the Gaspe now …once again, kudos to your Dad and Isla all the best of health and happiness to people like you who take the time to write the truth!

We also had. Dog that had fear aggression issues. Got him as a puppy and he was fine until he was 4 years old. We tried every therapy known – nothing completely worked. We learned to keep him and others safe by always having him on a leash outside – feeding him last, after us
( dominance so he realized he is not head of the pack) never letting him out of the door first- and we had to instruct guests to never acknowledge the dog when the entered the house. If he was completely ignored he would come at his own time and was in most cases totally accepting. Some people he was all over. Others he had issues with. We always had people who insisted they were good with dogs, that dogs loved them, and when the dog behaved inappropriately they were astonished- even after being told not to touch him.
We belong to a club where dogs are supposed to be on a leash at all times. It drives me nuts when people ignore the rule because it puts the dogs n the leashes at a disdvantage.

Sadly, our dog developed brain cancer and his issues exacerbated. After attacking 3 family members in one day, we made the sad decision to put him down.

I can’t disagree with the premise of your article however I disagree with the headline. It implies that César Milan and a dick are opposite ends of a spectrum. I would challenge that and just come right out and say that César IS a dick . Sadly the exposure that Nat Geo has given him has set dog training back 60 some years. His theories are flawed and his entire premise of ‘pack’ is not reality based. Dogs are NOT pack animals. They are social but fluid in their loose associations. ……….

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I’m tired of this fight. I have taken in several reactive dogs and I truly do care about the safety of all dogs, including the jerks who think they own the world and rules don’t apply to them. I hate that I’ve learned to yell “my dog bites” when I see a “friendly” dog heading towards it. I used to try to explain but people still didn’t get it. They get “he bites”! The reality is, he may not bite, but if a strange dogs comes running out of control, the odds are good he will. He is a good boy and deserves a good life. I wish other would respect the rules.

Agreed completely and well put. On leash in on leash areas, I walked my GSD in an on leash area for years, most days there was an old woman with a walker walking a very old slow GSD we’d wave at a distance. One day I saw her and her dog in the distance with 3 large dogs bouncing around and jumping at them with their owner shouting “Don’t worry they’re friendly,” far enough away I couldn’t see who it was. By the time I tied my dog and ran over they were gone, she shaken but not injured but I never saw her or her dog in the park again. Still makes me sad, she lost this simple but important pleasure and she could have easily been injured due to someone deciding the rules didn’t apply to them. Simple on leash in on leash areas, there are many reasons for it.

I enjoyed your article, it makes some truely good points. Although i did think you were also referencing thee Cesar Milian, and not a wanna be Cesar. People tend to always think theyre the exception to the rule. What bothers me about my local off leash park is that it is part of a much larger park, but theres no gate / not completely fenced, so dogs run out of the off leash and around other parts of the park. I worry for their safety. I also do not bring my fur kids to the off leash part of the park. But walk them in other areas. Please thank your dad for doing so much for Isla, im sure they were meant for eachother. In a world where you commonly hear people talk about all thats wrong, im delighted to hear of a man whos doing something to make things better and right! If everyone took 1 cause they cared about (like animals) and did something, fostered, adopted, donated, volunteered, spayed & neutered, the world would be in better shape. Thanks to all who try to make a difference!

Well said. Good for your Dad. I have two dogs who are good with others except when on leash and off lead dogs are the bane of our existence. Perhaps articles like yours can help change the culture around dog behaviour and ownership. But people are resilient in their ignorance and I do believe the owners you speak of are a major reason why people give up on difficult dogs. It’s frustrating, challenging and frankly embarrassing at times to live with a reactive dog and ‘friendly’ dogs approaching uncomfortable ones exacerbate the problem every time they do it. I would disagree with one thing you said, aggression in dogs is very common, leash aggression even more so, I have come to believe that it is not always the result of poor early socialization etc. I think it is natural, and some dogs are less comfortable with others, simple as that. Anyway, at least my view goes some way to ‘normalizing’ dod dog aggression. Oh and yeah, one other area of disagreement. 55 is NOT old.

Well said, but just a thought. If Dad’s dog is aggressive to other dogs he probably should muzzle train Isla. There are other situations in cities were his dog could come in close proximity to other dogs. For the same reason you call the off leash guy a dick for not taking into account he may in counter an aggressive dog, kinda makes your dad a dick for not muzzling an aggressive dog in public. If he does muzzle then I apologize.

If he has his dog under control then he shouldn’t have to muzzel his dog.
I had a highly reactibe dog who I could control at all times and would never consider putting a muzzle on. On one occasion I was walking my at the time siberian husky, someone decided they would let their pitbull off their leash so theu coild run around. Needless to say that pit bull attacked my husky. I was thankful that my dog has a lot of fur, because thay is what saved his life. He didn’t even habe a chanve to really fight back because it got a hold of his neck rather quickly and held on for 35min before we could get the dog off mine. I’d never take my dogs ability to protect himself from an off leashed dog.

People with the off leash dogs are assholes, no doubt about it. But a muzzle would help as an insurance against dickheads and their non-agressive dogs. Does your dad have one for Isla and her trips to the city? I know it isn’t fair, and it shouldn’t be her wearing a thing in her head, it should be the other dogs wearing simple leashes. But it would be a shame if your dad loses her for one of those wannabes. Btw amazing man your father! And great, great article…you SO stole the words right out of my mouth lol

I apologize for the wordiness of the comment I am about to leave but if it opens the eyes of just one off-leash believer to change their ways, then it is worth it.

This article completely hits home after TWO of my LEASHED greyhounds have been attacked this year by two different OFF-LEASH dogs exactly 8 weeks apart from each other; one in April and one just a week ago. Both times I was minding my own business, taking my LEASHED dogs on nice walks and the worst happened. The first attack was brutal and we almost lost our girl to severe bite wounds and complications of infection. I had no way to protect her despite trying very hard and it is an image you will NEVER forget; watching your dog getting bitten over and over and hearing them scream and seeing the blood; it is mentally devastating and I promise, after that, you will never be the same. The other dog was put down due to the violence of the attack. The vet bills were close to $8,000. She had 3 major surgeries in 2 weeks and stayed at an Emergency Vet Clinic for 2 weeks – they said she was the only dog they have ever had that needed to stay there that long. Thank God she survived…she is a walking miracle who shouldn’t be here today.

Exactly, 8 weeks later, to the day, my other greyhound was attacked by an off-leash dog. Her wounds were, thankfully, not as severe but it was only because I had a night stick with me and used it. The dog would have kept biting my girl had it not been for the protection of the night stick. She ended up having complications and just got home yesterday from a 48 hr stay at the same Emergency Vet Clinic. Mentally, it broke me seeing the same situation happen twice in just a short time span of each other. I collapsed in the street crying after the second attack, in shock that this could be happening again and SO mad that another one of my dogs was hurt. The irony of the situation is one I still can’t wrap my mind around.

And these weren’t the only times we were attacked…since moving to our small town 4 yrs ago, we have had 6 near misses by off-leash dogs and irresponsible owners but, thankfully, they never resulted in actual bites.

And the off-leash believers tell me that it’s worth it to give their dog’s freedom and space to run and be dogs and I say, “What about my dogs?? Where is THEIR freedom to enjoy a walk without the fear of being killed??! Where is MY freedom to walk my dogs without the fear of them being killed??!”

I now feel like I have to prepare for war every time I go out the door with my dogs. I have a taser, a signal horn, a night stick, pepper spray and I am buying a cattle prod. It’s unreal that it has come down to that just in case someone decides to let their dog off-leash! The joy of walking my dogs has been taken from me. From the moment of the first attack, it was taken, and I will NEVER enjoy walking any dog again until I leave this earth. It used to be one of my favorite things to do. It is maddening and heartbreaking. Now, any dog I see is a threat. I don’t care what breed or size…fear grips me and I start sweating and getting nauseous. My doctor tells me that it’s PTSD. After two attacks, where the images will never leave my memory, I believe I do have PTSD. Why another dog owner would ever what to risk inflicting injury or mental harm on another person or dog is beyond me. It is cruel and demeaning.

The only reason I can see, that they allow their dog to be off-leash, is because they have never seen their dog attacked. If they did witness their dog being attacked, the way mine were attacked, they would empathize and change their ways forever. I would never wish what happened to my dogs and I on anyone, but I do wish others who let their dogs run off-leash, understood what we went through…the shear gravity of it…so they would be more respectful and understanding.

Thank you for the post and I hope that the people who read this understand that dogs are dogs and will be dogs. They are in our care for a reason. As dog owners, we must protect those around us, because we respect each other for even being dog owners in the first place. It takes special people to own dogs and to take on that responsibility. To feel like other dog owners have your back, that they want to protect you, your dogs and their dogs, is the best feeling. Unfortunately, I know very few people like this. But I wish it was always this way. I wish there was a mutual understanding that, just out of respect for each other, dogs would always be leashed so that we ALL might get to enjoy the simple things in life, like a walk with our fury companions. It would be a beautiful co-existence if that were the case.

I have much love and respect for your dad who has taken on the responsibility of Isla. Bless him for being responsible with her and doing all he can to rehabilitate her.

Oh my god! Your stories, both of them, have my stomach churning. See, this is what off-leashers don’t get. This! I walk my three huskies alone, on leash, and always under control (the pictures you see of Dustin walking the dogs on the site, I can do that too). I can’t count how many times strange dogs have come flying up to me both at their owners negligence while walking and ALSO flying out of houses, having not been secured or tethered.

I don’t want to blanket a statement and say men don’t experience the same amount of fear and anguish you describe, but I usually find their response more adrenaline charged. For women, it’s different. After EVERY one of these incidents, even if I manage a strong response at the time, I always call Dustin after and cry. And I’m NOT prone to dramatic emotional outbursts.

If someone put another’s child at risk in the same situation, it would be unquestionable. They would be horrible HORRIBLE people. But dogs? Apparently it’s ok to sacrifice someone else’s dogs safety because you want the right? …the ease? …the freedom to do what you want with yours?! It’s just not right!!

I’m so sorry you went through that. And I hope once they’re both fully healed you’re able to find joy in walking them again.

The fact that you were able to defend your dog the second time screams that you’re an incredibly strong, capable person.

Thank you, Sonia. I want to stress that during the second attack, my husband was with me because I can’t, and won’t, walk my dogs alone anymore. I have three greyhounds and a labradoodle. All are leash trained and NEVER allowed off-leash.

My husband and I were walking all dogs at 8:30 pm in our neighborhood…a neighborhood that we have walked a thousand times (the safest neighborhood in town, I might add) past the same house we always walk past. Two kids were at the door talking with the door opened. As we scanned the scene, there was not a dog in sight, but as we walked past the house, on the other side of the street. Suddenly, out the corner of my eye, a little fur ball is barking and hurling towards us at full speed. It was a tiny shih tzu and I have never seen the dog before. He comes straight for my 4 dogs with no fear and immediately starts jumping up and biting. My husband has 2 dogs and I have 2 dogs. He had a taser in his pocket, but couldn’t get to it fast enough to turn it on and use it, all while holding our two dogs back from biting and, potentially killing, this tiny dog. As fast I could process, I realized I had the night stick and ran over screaming and just hit the dog on the rib cage one time as he was headed towards our other greyhound who was attacked back in April. The shih tzu stopped biting and backed off. A little boy, maybe 12, rushed over and picked his dog up and ducked into the house. No one came back outside after us to check on our dogs. I was devastated and crying. We immediately turned to go back home and we noticed our greyhound was, indeed, bleeding. My heart sank because, no matter the size of the dog bite, it harbors nasty bacteria. This was a small laceration, maybe the size of your index finger’s fingernail. Nothing too concerning to the untrained eye but I knew it could be a problem…and a few days later, despite cleaning it with chlorahexadine solution and putting her on oral antibiotics, within 10 mins of the bite, it got infected and then we had another 48 hr stay at an Emergency Vet.

All of that to say, that the first time I was alone and without any way to defend my first dog that was attacked. It was the most helpless feeling in the world. The second time, I actually had my husband, a taser and a night stick, and still had trouble defending my dogs. The chaos and commotion that ensues during an attack is something one can only understand by experiencing it first hand. You feel like you might be prepared for the next time and then realize you have no idea what do. My husband was shaken because he finally realized what I went through alone only 8 weeks prior.

The other dog that attacked my dog and I the first time, was a mix, they think maybe it had pit bull but they didn’t know for sure. It came at us full speed from across a park and had apparently jumped the fence to get to us. I will never know the truth, if the owners accidentally let it out the front door or if it broke it’s chain or if it actually jumped the fence. All I know is the attack came out of nowhere. He got her 4 times…once on her left hind leg, twice on her right hind leg and once on her right shoulder. He actually hit an artery or very large vessel because blood was pouring and shooting from the wound. Thank God, the owner’s husband drove his van over to help and he took us to the vet that was 5 mins away otherwise, she would not have lived. I would not have been able to get home by myself and keep pressure on the wound. She would have died in front of me. I re-live the scene everyday and it still makes me sick. I will never forget it.

I pray no one will have to go what we have gone through. It is such a scary situation, and for what??! What are these off-leash believers/owners proving? Only heartbreak can come from having a dog off-leash…no good comes of it. Something bad will happen…It’s not a matter of if, but when. The little shih tzu could have easily been hit by a car on the way to get our dogs, one of our dogs could have gotten away from our grip and bit and tore this dog to shreds in an effort to protect itself and it would have all happened in front of the owner’s children, my husband or myself could have been bitten. I can make no sense of fighting for having a dog off-leash.

We are actually considering going in front of the town council in an effort to tell our stories and fight for stricter rules for off-leash dogs in our town. We need a crack down…people are too nonchalant about the leash laws and because of it, innocent people and dogs are suffering.

I pray you never encounter a situation with your three huskies. Please always have a dependable way to defend yourself and your dogs. Learn from my mistakes and take something with you.

As I mentioned in an earlier comment, I had a husky (who was a highlyreactive)who I always walked on a leash and had under control. He was attattacked by a pit bull, he was lucky because his fur saved him. He was very bruised up, but no punctured skin. On the other hand, my dog and myself were covered in blood from me trying to defend my dog by myself as it was an 80ur women with alzhiemer s who let the dog loose. She actually yelled at me for kicking the dog trying to get it off my dogs neck where it held onto for 35min. It was the most traumatizing thing I had experience to that point in my life. You’re never the same after. I’ve never walked my dog empty handed since. This was 10yrs ago and I can still remember. I know have a rottweiler who is 8months old, complete submissive suck who I also always have on a leash. She has been attacked 3times now by people with off leash dogs whith owners who come runners behind yelling their “friendly”, next thing they biting my dog, she lus down and cries while I have to do what I need to protect my dog. This IS the reason why leash laws exist! To protect every pet and person. What if it was my 4yrs son who used to walk with us that got bit? I want to feel safe walking both my 4 legged and 2 legged babies. Sadly I can no longer walk both together on my own as its not safe. Which is sad because my son doesn’t understand why he can’t come on walks any more, something we LOVED to do together. .
I hope your dogs heal both mentally and physically.

People who think they can correctly predict what their dog’s going to do 100% of the time are dangerous. My feeling is that they don’t feel the rules apply to them because they have complete control over their animal. Basically, they forget that their dog is an ANIMAL, and no one can know their animal that well. Ninety-nine out of one-hundred times, maybe they can predict correctly, but that one time is all it takes. And nobody wants their dog to be the victim of that “one time”.

My heart goes out to you – I’m SO sorry you and your pups had to go through that, and I hope you are all on the mend.

While walking from the car to the beach one Sunday, we were walking on a narrow path and I saw two women with two huge dogs (looked like mastiff crosses and about 150 lbs each) coming towards us. The women had the dogs on flexi leads and lets just say that the dogs were walking the women instead of the other way around. Anyway, there was an opening to my right, so we entered that and I put Dice on a down stay to let them pass us. However, the dog closest to us insisted on visiting Dice and literally dragged the woman towards us. Now Dice is good with other dogs and never ever starts anything, but when scared or feeling threatened, she can do her border collie thing and snap back and at the rate that dog came charging at us, I didn’t want to take the chance and stepped in front of Dice. The woman was yelling, “don’t worry, he’s friendly,” and I just looked at her and said, “but what if my dog isn’t and bites yours. I took responsibility for my dog’s safety and put her on a down stay out of the way and you could have caused a bite and who’s fault would that have been? Would you have acknowledged that you were wrong or would you have looked at my dog as if she was aggressive? Would you put me in legal trouble because of your inability to control your “friendly” dog? Or worse case scenario, watch my dog being euthanized by authorities for biting yours? Don’t you think a little training of your dog and yourself is in order? Maybe when you see somebody put another dog out of harms way, there is a reason and you should pay attention to that? ”
She actually stormed off totally pissed off. Hellooooooo?
People, people…accept responsibility and if you have a hard time controlling your dog on a leash, a flexi lead is the LAST type of leash you should use. More importantly, if your dog is friendly, awesome! However, not everybody wants to meet your dog and if you want your friendly dog to meet another dog, ask, ask, ask!

SO tired of off-leash dogs, here, where it is a by-law, many of the the culprits are residents!!! Occasional we have our grand-dog and I am scared to death to run into these dogs. She has been attacked before and is as afraid as I am…. or more probably. What is in their minds, what makes it O.K. for them and why? Also while off leash they do their business and of course the owners NEVER see that!Very convenient!

I totally get what you are saying, and I completely agree. We ended up moving to the country because this happened with far too much frequency. I do have a question though. Has your dad ever thought of putting a muzzle on the dog when he walks it just to ensure they both never find themselves in a situation that could become ugly?

Thank you for posting this! We have a foster dog very much like Isla. She too deserves a chance and a life. We always take great pains to keep her and other dogs safe. I commend your dad for doing what he’s doing. To all those people who think it’s OK to let your dogs run off leash everywhere you go, shame on you! It’s because of you we have to be hyper vigilant and careful where our dogs are and what’s around them. You want your dog off leash? Go to a dog park or keep them in the yard. And to be fair, Cesar Milan is a dick too

I too am from Vancouver. I had a pit bull that I rescued. She did not get along with other dogs. I too took her for training which was unsuccessful. I was very diligent when I took her out for walks and the safety of others and their dogs. It would piss me off when ans owner would approach with their dogs and say. “Oh mine is friendly. let them sniff.” NOOOO lets not. . These owners were relentless. Sometimes getting aggressive with me for not letting this most certain attack happen. I even had trouble with sitters for my dog wanting to take them off leash. Because my dog must be feeling my anxiety . Therefore I was the problem. NOOOO that was how my dog was. She was my best friend. Saved my life and my new born twice. But did not like her own kind.

This happens to us all the time in the middle of Boston! Our 11 lb rescue dachshund-chihuahua mix, has, in the past, exhibited aggression towards other dogs on the street. When introduced to other dogs properly, she’s actually great, and loves to play! But when on the street simply walking by others, she can often act out. We’ve been working so hard to train her to understand that she doesn’t need to protect us (we’ve zeroed in on that being one of the reasons she reacts this way – as she doesn’t do it with her dog walker). Just the other day a large off-leash german shepard came charing at her right on our street (which, mind you, is in the middle of downtown Boston) and ran right up to her face. Naturally she freaked out, and certainly tried to nip him/her. Though she’s tiny and likely couldn’t do any real damage to a larger dog, I’m constantly fearful that she could hurt a smaller dog that charges up to her off-leash, when she’s in a vulnerable position on her leash. She shouldn’t be put in this position! We hear that line all the time: “don’t worry, he/she’s friendly!!” Other owners assume all the time that just because she’s tiny, she’s 100% friendly. To make matters SO much worse— when the incident with the german shepard happened we were standing on our street waiting outside the mailman’s truck to get a package. I remember looking up, seeing and seeing the dog on-leash. As they got closer to us THE OWNER ACTUALLY UN-LEASHED HIS DOG!! I was dumb-founded. I’m thinking he was one of these exact types you describe in your article, wanting to test his training skills and see if his dog would actually stay next to him. The middle of the city, in Boston, with a dog and person you don’t even know is absolutely 100% not the right place to ‘test your skills.’

And whether the off-leash dog is friendly isn’t the point. As we all know, most dogs have no concept of “personal space” – when you see the cute pictures, it’s sweet and funny; however, when they approach another dog, especially one on a leash, that whole “in the face” greeting is too overwhemling for many of the leashed dogs. In that case, the leashed dogs can become aggressive quickly, because being restrained puts them at a disadvantage when they’re try to protect themselves or to protect you in what they perceive as a threatening situation.

Wonderfully written, thank you for taking the time to post this! And give your dad and big hug from me, I am so upset for him. It’s just sickening that he did nothing wrong but this dick tried to somehow place blame on him?!? Sadly, there are some ignorant and downright delusional humans we have to walk this earth with, and the ones with the giant egos are the worst of the lot. I hope this article gets shared to all corners of the earth and every supposed dog lover reads and shares it! Well done!!! {insert pats on back here}

I too have a rescue dog ..alot like your dads…she does not do well around other dogs at all….I always have her on a leash….but people in my area seem to think they can just let their dogs run…I tell them my dog does not get along with other dogs so pleas when going by my house to have them on a leash…I get told oh they are ok……I can stop my dog from goING after your dog.. but I can’t stop your dog from running up to mine….my dog is a beautiful dog and a great dog..just becauae she does not like dogs make her a bad dog..
Or there is this human that has his dog on a leash alright but there is no humans haND holding it…just a dog dragging it…..I love my dog….I keep her safe that way…

Oh no absolutely not. I think the idea of walking your dog in the early am is great. Maybe try a later night after work walk around where you live where you might run into another dog or two. Please dont put your dog down just because there isnt a ton of walk options.

YES, YES, YES! I cannot agree with this article any more emphatically! I have a pit bull very much like Isla, she was rescued from some suspected backyard dog fighters a few years ago. I trained her commands in English, German, and hand signals and worked very hard to get her over her fears and complete lack of socialization. She loves kittens and bunnies and used to love other dogs. That was up until she had been jumped not once, but twice by off-leash dogs. In both instances it was in public places where all dogs ought to be leashed, and the owners came running behind the dogs shouting “they’re friendly!” It was like the old fighting days all came rushing right back to her and she was ready to rumble. Now we have to be extremely careful anywhere we go and I have to maintain her focus on me at all times, even when she’s trying to go kick some other dog’s butt. She was training to be a service dog, but now we have to start everything all over again. What’s most upsetting is that it all could have been avoided with a little common courtesy!

OMG, thank you for writing this. I own a dog just like your dad’s dog. BlackJack has to be properly introduced in a very controlled environment before he will like another dog. He has the unfortunate distinction of being the only dog I have owned that has had so many unleashed dogs charge after him. It is good to know that there are others who go through this and finally someone has spoken up about it.

Oh Wow!! My world EXACTLY. I live that struggle daily. My walks with my dog Tyge are not “leisurely.” I have to stay vigilant for wayward dogs, or situations that looks like potential slackers when it comes to controlling their dogs. Many a time I have to do an about face and change directions….so be it. I have worked with her now with treats, when she sees or hears another dog she gets a reward if she focuses on me. This right now is huge and helps a lot. I will say, we were ambushed twice….it was not pretty…other dogs off leash or running off of their property while I was in the street…and I get screamed at. I too worry about her being labeled as an aggressive Pitbull as one man yelled at me while I was trying to keep is out of control terrier from charging us while we were trying to avoid him. I even had a neighbor’s visitor with their visiting dog OFF LEASH charge into my yard, dog fight ensured, and they called the police on me…..Arrrghhhhh.

Anyway, thank you for you commentary. You are not alone and thank you for working so hard with your dog!! It is not always easy, but so worth the work, energy and LOVE!!

I have never read a thread so full of whaaaaa in my life.
I walk my dog off-leash every day. She never charges towards other dogs. She never approaches other dogs. She walks with me and ONLY approaches other dogs that we know. We’ve been doing fine for 13 years.
If you are in full control of your dog while it is on leash, great. If you own a large strong dog that you can’t control even when he/she is leashed then YOU have a problem. Your problem is not mine.
Please do not attempt to teach me what you THINK you know about leash laws. It is illegal to climb trees in Oshawa.
Please do not use the term “rescue” to describe all dogs that were not purchased from a pet store. All adopted dogs were not rescued. Mine was adopted from a puppy mill that the province shut down. The owners of the puppy mill should have been executed but I am told that is not a common practice in Ontario. Too bad.
I’ll be on the other side of the street enjoying my day. Your Dad will be out walking his dog and enjoying his day.
See ya out there.

If I wanted an echo chamber, I’d just not approve comments I didnt agree with and they’d never show up on my site. The only comments that have been deleted are psychos that start talking about shooting people and animals. And end with DIE DIE DIE!!!

SPACE! It works both ways!
I am seeing more irresponsible dog owners and the majority of those owners are those whose dogs are on leashes.
I have 4 off leashed dogs, I am a responsible dog owner. Whenever I see a dog on a leash I call mine to my side and keep them under close control, while doing so I give you Space. So please do me a favour and show me the same respect as I’ve shown you and give me my space too.
Don’t walk straight over to my dogs head on and walk within a couple of feet of me when there is so much open space around us to pass! Don’t follow me either and allow my dogs their freedom to have a run around, it is why I brought them there.
And if you want to introduce your leash dog to my group, ASK FIRST and give your dog a loose leash, I’m tired of having to call my dogs away when I see you wrapping your leash tighter around your hand causing your dog tension and fear, and yes, I’m tired of the near scraps your behaviour cause. If you want to meet my dogs, happy for you to do so but give your dog space to move around.
SPACE!

If your dad’s dog is aggressive towards other dogs, then it should be muzzled when in public. I’m not saying that to be mean or disruptive, but it is a good way to solve this problem. There are plenty of pantable water drinkable comfortable muzzles, get one.

When my loved ones are driving, out late on a weekend night, I always tell them to be vigilant and drive as safe as possible, with the addendum, that it’s not my loved one’s driving I’m worried about, it’s other people’s craptacularness.

This rant is sort of valid, but you cannot control other people’s actions, only your own, so in essence it’s attention seeking.

“Pit Bull TYPE” dogs are already at risk. Don’t be ‘that guy’ who makes it worse for every one else who owns a non dog aggressive “Pit Bull TYPE’ .

Sorry, but I dont agree. I’m not big on not standing up for what I believe is right and voicing my opinion. If nobody said anything about things that bothered them or things that they hoped to change in the world, it would be a pretty shitty place.

but she has a great point… your dad’s dog IS the problem. don’t make it everyone elses. the muzzle would be the responsible thing to do. standing up for what you believe is admirable, but you sound a tad entitled…

Other people breaking the law is my dad’s problem?! Threatening physical violence against a 55 yr old man is my dad’s problem? Whether the dog was muzzled or not (a detail I’ve left out because it doesn’t really matter as my dad’s dog is just an example) the problem is NOT my dad’s. Furthermore… it’s my blog, I can sound however I want. I look forward to reading yours and hearing how entitled you are. Feel free to leave a link.

i stand with you and your dad i too have PIT BULLS and I do what i can to keep them safe from others. my dogs are as some would say aggressive but ONLY because you didn’t follow my directions, to give my dog there space. and a muzzle solves nothing in my case it only made things worse. un-muzzled my dogs are fine but put a muzzle on them and all hell breaks loose no pun intended. further more respect each others space, take the dog out and replace them with a human. how would you react if some one you didn’t know came running up to you and got in your face???? how would you react???? its no different with a dog of any breed. my pitbulls are babies to a point, running away from a fight until cornered then hell will break loose. it i say to you to keep your dog away from mine its for GOOD reason. BTW i have had encounters with the police about my dog being aggressive in public and it was in my favor NOT the other way around. i was sitting eating lunch with my dogs in a open restaurant when a unleashed dog followed my they’re owner walked by and there dog attacked mine for no reason and i asked the owner to get there dog under control before my dogs reacted and an Officer saw the whole thing unfold. long story short my dogs reacted and we walked away without trouble as for the other owner got ticketed and the dog was taken away. BTW my dogs where off leash in a fenced in area in my direct control while we ate. my dogs where praised for there behavior during the incident by other people for giving ample chance to leave before reacting to the situation. barking warnings and moving away (actually hiding behind me and climbing into me to get away from the other dog).
but hey i’m the one with the aggressive dogs. I think Not!!!

Excellent article! We face this issue daily on our walks with our two dogs. They were attacked at 6 months of age and are cautious now of dogs that charge at them, which is why we avoid off-leash parks/beaches yet still have to deal with jerks who feel entitled to have their dogs off leash wherever they please. We are so tired of the attitude we get from these self entitled people. No my dogs are not vicious we just don’t want your dog charging up at them! I’m always amazed at those that also seem surprised when there dog is aggressive with ours and the “wow, he’s never done anything like that before” ya right! I hope your article gets through to people like that and makes them realize it’s not only the safety of their dog but the one that is on leash that can’t adequately defend itself.

I have 3 little dogs. When I walk them they are on a leash..Even when I lived out in the middle of no where I still walked them on a leash..2 of them have never shown aggression..The 3rd one, Andy is very protective of me and will go for your ankle if you come near me…I keep him close to my side and hold my hand up if someone approaches. I have been asked if they bite and all I can tell them is they all 3 have teeth..Would Hooch and Abby bite probably not but I’m not willing to take that chance… Dogs have bad days too…Kudu’s to your dad..

Idiots with off leash dogs are a problem but, if your dad’s dog is on leash and is approached by off leash dogs, should there be an incident, isn’t the dog on leash clear of any wrong doing?
That is the rule of law where I live (California). Retractable leashes also do not count as having the dog on leash. The law states the leash can’t be longer than 6 feet.
Of course, I know your dad doesn’t want an incident to happen. Those kinds of incidents are traumatic for all involved, but leashed dogs should be protected by the law. Owners that want to risk their dog’s safety by having it off leash or on a retractable ate flippantly saying they don’t care.

My BC/Whippety mix can still be reactive. Fortunately, when she’s been charged by off leash dogs, and twice by dogs who had owners that couldn’t hang on to their cumbersome retractable (popped right out of their hands) my dog stiffened, refocused on me, and kept herself together – even with an unfriendly dachshund jumping at her face. EVERY DAMN TIME the idiot human said “It’s okay, she’s friendly”, or some similar idiot comment. I have responded (monitoring my breathing and tone so my dog does not pick up on my tension or irritation), ” COME GET YOUR DOG”, followed by any of the following:

My dog isn’t.

That’s fine, I’m not, hurry up and get your dog.

My dog will pick your dog up and SHAKE IT.
(that tends to make a moron hustle)

I have also tossed treats a few feet away, then even further from both us, and the sloggish owner)

I’m sorry your dad has to deal with such idiots, and kudos to him.

Anyone who thinks Cesar Mega Dunce doesn’t walk dogs off leash…..have you not watched the show? It used to open with him doing the dumb “pack walk” (and the fact that wolves don’t actually walk in a stupid formation of following the “Leader”, but, ya know…science and ethology don’t mesh with his myth and epic stories).

OMG – Yes! Thank you for writing this. I have two dogs, one is very reactive. If she meets a friendly dog and has time to understand that and get to know the dog, she can be okay. But if she meets one who simply bounds up to her or barks or lunges – she wants to fight back, and maybe it’s a bit of protectiveness. I’m working with her, but it’s so hard when we get blindsided. My pups are always on a leash, and I’m shocked at the number of people I meet on city sidewalks and on-leash walking paths who let their dogs bounce around from person to person and dog to dog.

look dude… if your dad’s dog is a problem dog then don’t make that everyone elses problem… yes there are a lot of irresponsible people out there period. but there are good dog owners also (i have a cat… my pooch died a few years back) who have well behaved dogs that are capable of roaming off leash and not getting into too much trouble… and good for them. dogs deserve a little freedom to move as well. yer old man took on a project, good for him… but it’s HIS project, you cannot punish everyone else for that. peace!

One of the reasons there is some ambiguity about on lead/off leAd is that some walks I do I rarely if ever see another person. I go to wild places usually pretty far from others, where anyone else would drive, so generally, if there are no other cars the chance of me seeing someone is pretty slim.

My dogs are off leash most of the time. They’re harmless. No nastiness there. They are big though. When they do meet others, they sniff, say hi, and pass. And that is a standard doggie meet.
Or at least 99% of doggie meets.

I can understand folk with yellow dogs having concerns about other dogs, but perhaps part of the solution can be that most cities/towns should have single dog exercise areas, where there is one gate in/out, and a yellow dog can be exercised away from ‘normal’ dogs.

I’m all for dogs of all abilities being socialised in cities, and I don’t believe dogs should be offlead in cities to minimise the risk to their own dog from cars, etc but also for the courtesy of other dog owners.

I think there needs to be common sense. I know of places, that because of one bad owner, who won’t muzzle or keep their vicious dog on lead, others fear to walk. That shouldn’t happen. Once a dog is known to be a biter, THAT owner needs to take the steps to ensure their dog isn’t a danger to others. Not just the average dog owner who has a friendly well socialised dog. And I am saying this having had both types of dog.

I also believe to exercise well, a dog needs off leash time, to have a good fast run, and get rid of excess energy. Not necessarily every walk, but it’s healthy for them at least a few times a week.

If you had a neighbour who slapped everyone they met, would you expect everyone on the street to stop saying hi to everyone else in case they were slapped? No, you’d use caution with that individual, because they’re the exception, not the rule.

Again Pauline. There are leash laws in place. You are asking accommodations to be made so owners who are not following the law can continue to do so? My dog has never bit another dog, but she’s been bit 4 times by off leash dogs. The first time it happened was the 3rd week we had her on a walk around our block. Although she has never bit a dog, she does she a fight or flight response to dogs running up to her when she is on leash. She is incredibly food motivated so I have done tremendous work with her over the last 7 years and she’s pretty damn great now, including long distance running (ON LEASH) and she has turned me into a marathon runner. But we are still faced with some of my neighbor’s loose dogs jumping on her back she doesn’t like it. I shouldn’t have to muzzle my dog for irresponsible owners who’s dogs are running up into our very controlled very small bubble. It also sets back training sometimes to have these negative encounters. Where is the compassion for owners who are really investing some incredible work with a challenging dog? Where is the common sense of just following the law. My dog is actually fine off leash, but if i want to take her off leash, I take her to an off leash area, or once a year when we go to Oregon and there is not one person on the beach. After many years of hard work my “dog with issues” has the best recall I’ve ever had with a pet. I live in Los Angeles. There are off leash places, it’s a hectic city. People do not need to have their dogs off leash in on leash areas. There are plenty of places for that. My dog is on leash most of her life and she still “gets to be a dog” and is really happy. We just adopted a new shelter dog who we are getting to know and again, would appreciate compassion and mutual respect from other dog owners to keep their dogs away. It is not your right to let your dog meet my dog. Los Angeles is not a city to make thousands of single dog runs to accomadate us. Just follow the laws. My dogs love people but I also respect that some people are fearful of dogs. My dog running up on a person and saying “HE’S FRIENDLY!” is just as irresponsible, inconsiderate, and selfish. We as dog owners are not entitled to anything. More love and respect between dogs owners and the laws is what we need.

“My dogs are off leash most of the time. They’re harmless. No nastiness there. They are big though. When they do meet others, they sniff, say hi, and pass. And that is a standard doggie meet.
Or at least 99% of doggie meets.”

This is literally exactly what the article is talking about. You and your dogs are the problem. This dad IS taking steps to ensure his dog isn’t a danger, and those steps include keeping his dog away from dogs like yours.

You Sound like a great Dog owner. knowing your dog is the key to safety for you and your dog. I myself have two dog both are Pit Bull rescues and are friendly to a point but if an unknown dog or person walks up to them they will become protective of me and my family that is just who there are. i take them on leash everywhere we go, I don’t need to walk them on leash as they both walk at my side at all times head at my legs that is how i trained them to walk with me. i take them on walks, shopping, dinner and the beach and I make it a point to tell people to ignore my dog and talk to me first before touching them, as I know my dogs better then anyone else and know what there mood is at the time. i have even had many encounters with the police about my dogs in public with no troubles. I have been asked to leave places due to my dogs but for nothing more then them being there. both my dogs are allowed to run free when it is safe for them to do so BUT I NEVER take my eyes off them and if i see anything that may put them in danger i call them back. And put them on there leashes. open field or dog park its all the same. i would like to think i trained them well to come when called but not always sometimes i have to call them several time to come but hell if my kid cries they’ll come running in a heartbeat. I can say with pride that my dogs are well behaved on and off leash. and i can say my dogs are very loyal and protective of me and my family. come to close to fast and they will stand guard and let you know there are there. they are pack animals we are to be there pack leader, there Alpha’s nothing less. trust in your dog and they will trust in you. BTW my dogs are always by my side where ever i go. and it i leave them at home they get mad and let me know it. as for training my dogs both responded differently to training my buddy was a softer touch and my Rocky was a more rough and tumble way but both resulted in the same out come respect for me and following my commands. and yes my dogs have gotten out to play with the neighborhood kids before and been brought home by a neighbor. I do have to say my dogs do have a personality of there own. all my neighbors know my dogs and most know that they just want to play and have fun with there dogs and kids. the ones who don’t are the ones that have aggressive pets that will bit unprovoked. with that being said knowing you dog is the key to there safety.

I’m no expert on training dogs. However, I have done far better in raising children. That being said, in my lifetime, I’ve had three dogs.
My Yellow Lab, Ruby. She was the best dog on earth. No. Really. She was. And I never, EVER allowed her to walk off-leash. In our home, she ruled the roost with a gentle paw and a great sense of humor. But outside–even though she was the bestie to all the neighborhood kids, she was always on leash. The only time she escaped my grip was to run in front of an oncoming car in order to protect our neighbor’s child how climbed out of her stroller and into the street. Luckily the car had good brakes.
Ruby, who was rather large, was attacked by an “off-leash” dog. I just about ripped the owner of off leash dog a new one. I made sure that Ruby was well-taken care of at his expense, I called the police and basically, I went bat-shit crazy.
Dorothy, our Basset Hound was a rescue. She was found tied and bound to a tree in a park in Jersey City. It took us an entire year to recondition her behavior. And when we did, she was the cutest, funniest little girl of all time. Dorothy, as well as Ruby, was never off-leash.
We now have another rescue. Chippy. He is a mini labradoddle. He isn’t Ruby nor is he Dorothy. He is a rascal and he can be naughty but not destructive. He will NEVER be off leash. And, sadly, I don’t take him on long walks because of the many off-leash guys and gals. Chippy is a “good” dog but he is that medium sized dog who thinks he is a large sized dog. Therefore, he MUST be kept on leash.
It’s common sense.
There are those who don’t like Milan–and I get it. But at least he is bringing the behavior of dogs to fruition. I try not to judge someone who’s heart is in the right place.
I’m not surprized, though, of the arrogance of “off leash” people. After all, we live in a rather entitled society in which people don’t want to take responsibility for their actions. They blame others.
Off leash people? Well, I equate them who raise spoiled, entitled children. After all, they are spoiled entitled adults.
*looks down as I step off my platform*
Great read!

Holy hell. This. This. This!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you for saying everything I have felt. Where is the fellow respect and compassion to all dog owners who are caring for their own animal and their unique personality that the owner may be working very hard to work on. I could share stories of course but I will just say thank you thank you.

I’m surprised at the number of comments from morons who still don’t understand that the unleashed dog whose owner is breaking the law, is the one causing the problem. The owner of a leashed dog has the right to be protected from unwanted interactions by unleashed dogs. It’s that simple. While I do agree that dogs have a need to run freely w/out being encumbered by a leash, that doesn’t mean that one is allowed to break the laws in order to accomodate that need. Fence in your property and remove the leash by all means, but know that the rules apply to all of us, including those of you who believe that crap your mothers told you about you being special….you’re not special, leash your dog!!!!

Exactly. There is a couple in our neighborhood who insist on walking their golden retriever off leash. Oh, they CARRY a leash with them. WTF? I have almost hit their dog with my car twice because the owners were standing around talking to other neighbors and not paying attention to him. Once he was by himself, a block and a half away from their house. He has wandered up on my sidewalk when I’m trying to leash my dogs and I have had multiple run-ins with them as we have 5 rescued dogs who get along with other dogs in varying degrees from fine to “I want to kill you.” i think I will print this out and leave it in their mailbox.

Sounds like a wonderful father who took on a major responsibility of a rescue dog, no doubt changing his life forever. Isn’t it a shame that in this day and age, respect for others is so often lacking, and laws are ignored (“not a good law, doesn’t mean me”, etc.). That dreaded sentence “my dog is friendly’ is about as smart as my horse never shies, never bucks, is bomb proof. Both statements may be totally true mostly, but they are dogs and horses, and do things that they must. They are not humans (mostly a blessing), which is why we love them. Why is it so difficult to agree to be respectful of all and put the leash on. Who is that hurting? I am always saddened when disrespect of each other is so ‘acceptable’.

Marie, this is my exact feelings. What is so hard about having compassion and mututal respect for other dog owners and just follow the law. That’s it. That’s all. My dog and I are entitled to nothing outside of the law. My dog is not entitled to run free. She is not getting to “be a dog” by being on leash. I was really challenged by my second dog. She has never bit a dog, but she’s been bit 3 times, my other dog was bit once. She is reactive on leash because of this. She is actually better off leash and has an outstanding recall, does that mean I should just have her off leash because she’s better behaved??? No!

Thank you! I own a rescue with feat-aggression. I have been training her ever since we got her at 6 months of age, already “with issues”. I would never consider walking my dog (with Gentle Leader and leash firmly in place) in a crowded situation. I only walk her in my own suburban development. But those who leave their dogs outside unattended or allow them to run out of the house at will because they have an “Invisible Fence” aren’t pet peeve.
(I had an Invisible Fence once, and a GREAT dog. My great dog jumped it the ONE time we left him out unattended and he was hit by a car, suffered, and died. So yeah, there’s THAT.)
But I still have to deal with the fact that my dog, seeing another, invisibly “fenced in” dog CHARGING at her, has NO idea that the other dog might stop before the curb.
It’s extremely disturbing and frightening to her, and sets us back with all of our training.
I avoid other dog owners – I even run behind houses or trees or cars if necessary.
But I can’t seem to get other owners to understand just how scary a charging, unleashed dog is to a leashed fear-aggressive dog just trying to follow her training and have a controlled, safe walk. Thank you VERY MUCH for posting this!

I have a very large 100# Black Lab, have had him from a puppy 8 weeks old. He is the most friendly and non aggressive dog I have ever known, he shy’s away from small dogs that bark a lot. We only have him off leash when we know there is no one around and no other dogs around. We see it every day where stupid people have their small dogs off leash because they think oh their small and they mind well. Well, I have news for them. If my dog is on leash and a small dog comes near him, he will scare the living crap out of them. Because, when he is on the leash he feels like he can’t protect himself so he goes after the little dogs. Unless, I say leave it they are fair game. We tell people every day to keep their dogs on a leash, and the do the same thing every day. One day, I decided that I saw a small dog off leash coming toward us. So I took my dog off leash. My dog stayed right by my side, until we go close and then my dog just pretended to go after the one coming toward us. The owner yelled at me, I said it’s all fair. You have your dog off leash, then mine will be off leash. The next time we saw them their dog was on leash.

Ok lets clarify a few things here and now. Opinions are like assholes, everyone has one. I think if you have the law to put a dog on a leash then just do it. No muzzle on a dog should be needed if everyone is respectful. Now I have owned, since a little girl, all kinds of dogs from German Shepard’s to beagles. About two years ago my last beagle died and went to rescue a new dog. I know am a proud owner of an American Pitbul Teirrer that I love with all my heart. It was not easy at first but he is amazing. If I dare to put a leash on him, I am like the flying nun because he is so powerful. I take the leash of and he stays by my side. You see I learned a lot from him and TRUST is the biggest issue. He trusts me and I trust him. I can do anything to him and he lets me because he trusts me. Now if you are going to try to let your dog of leash then you better make sure they stay when told to stay and walks with you. No dog on leash or off of a leash should walk ahead of you. Beside you is where they should be. And just to shed some light on my dog, the local police department knows him by name and has offered to take him because he is that good and has told me that he would make an awesome police dog. I am not a trainer and I am not by no means a perfectionist but my dog knows TRUST, LOYALTY, LOVE AND DEVOTION. Any dog, size or age, will show at some point aggression if these things are not met.

Very well put! It is everyones responsibility to abide by the leash laws. They are in place to help protect everyone. I have 5 dogs. They are all great with other dogs except 2 of them take time getting to know another dog first. When a dog off leash charges at them (To play or to fight) they see that as a threat and become defensive. You would as well if some random stranger came running at you without any warning or reasoning. I commend the extensive effort your dad is putting into helping his dog. It can take a lot of work and at times seem impossible but in the end it is all worth it.

Have you ever heard of the yellow ribbon campaign? it’s a ribbon that is put on the leash of the dog that doesn’t do well with other dogs around and gives a visual indicator to others to have their dogs keep their distance. It is a new campaign but is growing. It might be an idea for Isla to have one.

Another tool that might be helpful is a mesh muzzle. They can be fit so Isla can breathe and drink properly but will constrict enough to not allow a dog bite to happen.

I do understand where you are coming from and I really do like your article. There are too many dog owners out there who do not understand dog behaviour or the risks of when dogs don’t get along. It can be lethal and costly and heartbreaking. I hope the Dick you addressed this to actually reads this and kudos to your Dad for taking on a challenging dog.

it is interesting that no one is giving another reason for the defensive behavior of our dogs when approached by a “friendly free dog”. Often it seems their job is to protect the person on the end of the lead although we are trying to tell them it is okay.

My hat is off to your dad. Wish there were more like him. As for Caeser Milan, one has just to watch a few of his shows to be able to see him lift a dog off it’s feet by the collar. If he did that to me, I’m sure I would do what he asked too, at least until I could get away from him. I would love to do to him only what he has done to animals. That is fair isn’t it?
I’m a dog trainer and only train with positive, patience methods. Sometimes it is so hard but it is so worth it!

I see the other side too. Q. Why would he bring a reactive dog to areas that would flood them and destroy all his hard work? You wouldn’t and if he does he’s gone to fast. His trainer should instruct him explain, when dogs smell a weakness or challenge in another dog, it’s sets them of in a defense behavior, …so back to Q. I would say taking your dog to these places … that is irresponsible. To complain about off leashed dogs in busy streets fair enough but those dogs are following their owner and more than likely regulars who have no problems walking by distractions, as they are trained. But to insist those dogs are leashed because he’s trying to, pass, those dogs are Not the problem and you have NO right to insist they are leased, its your dog with the reactive behaviour…… so again, back to my question?

Jacquie I am not sure where you live, but this applies to everywhere. Not just “places you take your dog to have a nice time.” I come across this problem as a person living in Los Angeles who is trying to take my dog around the block. It actually happened for the 5th time with my neighbor’s tiny black dog that she likes to sit in the front yard unleashed all the time. The only redeeming quality of this situation is the owner gets really mad at her dog for running up on my pit bull and tells it to get away, but this tiny dog tries to get on my dogs back and dominate it and as soon as this tiny dog growls, my dog doesn’t like it. Maybe in small towns you can avoid these situations more, but in a place like Los Angeles, these situations are EVERYWHERE! Even out my front door. Also, again, there should be respect from other dog owners that some dog owners are working on their dog. I have the right to go to Griffith Park and walk with my dog and work on focus exercises where there is enough space to do so and even STILL we have dogs off leash around. They are breaking the law and when I politely ask them to call their dog please, it is always met with aloof or hostile responses. This encounter should be as simple as “Excuse me can you leash you dog?” “Sure.” “thank you! have a nice day.”

Also, many dogs are reactive. They may never hurt another dog but I’d rather just avoid that. The only way to work on these issues is out in the real world where I can slowly take him towards his threshold of distraction and continue to work on focus training. Your dog running up on us is taking my dog past his threshold. As someone who loves animals and shelter dogs I have a lot of respect for people who adopt dogs who need some structure and work and really put the time in. Bless these wonderful people. My first dog I didn’t have to think about these issues that much and honestly let my dog off leash when I shouldn’t and was stupid. I was stupid and selfish and didn’t think about the person on the other end. My second dog really made me see the big picture. My second dog is amazing now, passed her canine good citizens test, amazing at agility, but she still is a dog that needs slow introductions. I know many dogs like this. It also doesn’t help that she was bit 3 times by stray or loose dogs in the last 6 years. She has never bit a dog, but biting or not biting is not the issue. The point of the article is asking for respect from other dog owners. My dogs LOVE PEOPLE, but I also respect that fact that some people are really scared of dogs. That doesn’t mean that I let my dog run up to an unknown person, pull to smell a person, or jump on a person. My dog does not have the right to do that and I am not entitled to let that happen and to just yell “HE’S FRIENDLY!” is irresponsible. This person or this dog may not care if you dog is friendly. Respect their feelings. Oh and again. . . it’s the law. Did we mention that?

Thanks for posting this. I live in Regina and there are a very large number of people who think the leash bylaw doesn’t apply to them.. I would also like to point out that the injury in this isn’t restricted to the dogs. Two weeks ago, an off leash Lab/German Sheppard cross rushed me and my dogs and knocked me down. Once that happened, my dogs got all riled up. What did the owner do? Nothing. As I laid there in pain with the wind knocked of me, he just called his dog over, put him on leash, and walked away mumbling “some people shouldn’t have dogs”. If he was referring to himself, I completely agree.

Dogs are unpredictable. I’ve had dogs for all of my life. Even the best behaved dog can react in a way you would never have expected. When all is said and done, they are animals. Keep your dog on a leash in leash restricted areas please!

Why should all dogs be leashed because some have had poor upbringings and have temperament issues? I more or less agree with you that dogs should be leashed, as they are large, carnivorous animals who pose a most famous threat to every mailman, but your argument is nonsensical. “My dog might bite yours, so yours needs to be restrained at all times.” “My son might rape you, so you need to stay inside at all times.” It’s the same argument. “My *thing* cannot control itself, so your freedoms will have to be limited instead.”

It’s actually more like saying your insistence on breaking the law affects my rights and freedoms, stop that. Here’s the thing, if you asked most off leash dog owners if they would trade putting a dog to sleep for having their dog off leash that day, they wouldn’t. They share shelter rescue posts, they love dogs. I just think people are so hell bent on doing what THEY want at all times, they dont think of the consequences for other people. Respect. That’s it.

I could probably write an entire other blog post about being chased by dogs, people who are deathly afraid of dogs, runner/skijorners/cyclists who have their daily activity affected by off leash dogs. Same argument, different, more wide-range consequences.

“It’s actually more like saying your insistence on breaking the law affects my rights and freedoms, stop that.”

But that’s not the argument you made. I agree that we have leash laws for a reason (I said as much in my initial comment), and they should be obeyed. “Because my dog is mean and might hurt yours, and then it would be put down because it can’t stop itself from biting things” is not a logical argument in support of those laws, however.

Instead of addressing what I said, you leapt into your canned diatribe about leash laws. I am not defending unleashed dogs. I am confronting and exclusively concerned with your faulty logic.

Also, nobody is buying your “it’s the law” defense, because it’s a blatant shield for your position. Instead of actually defending your stance of “You should be careful because my dog is dangerous,” (and I don’t blame you–it’s an entitled, indefensible opinion) you’re playing the “You can’t argue against me, you lawbreaking scallion!” card. One thing doesn’t have anything to do with the other.

Look man, both people are at fault. It’s amazing how you guys ignored that *I support leash laws.* I actually *hate* dogs, they’re terrifying carnivorous beasts, some of them too large to handle. If we can’t own cheetahs, we shouldn’t own mastiffs. I am not in support of uncontrolled, free-roaming mutts.

I am against entitled logic. I am against coming to the right solution by the wrong means. “Because my dog is vicious, you should be wary” is the wrong means. “Because my car has no brakes, you should be mindful of your child” is nonsense. It is a nothing argument. Your car should not have passed inspection. It shouldn’t be on the road. The child shouldn’t be out there either, but we shouldn’t have laws that keep children in yards solely because stupid people drive uncontrollable cars. Likewise, we do not have leash laws because “my dog has behavioral issues.” We have leash laws because dogs are unpredictable animals which sometimes attack people. We have leash laws because dogs do not understand how the human world works and will stupidly tear after trucks and have their faces smooshed. We have leash laws to prevent the Islas of the world from tearing after other dogs. We do not have leash laws to protect Islas from nosy neighbors.

You dog people are all terrifyingly stupid. One side of you says: “My dog doesn’t need to be leashed, because it isn’t dangerous” while it’s tearing after some kids in the park, and the other side says “Your dog should be leashed because mine bites anything that gets to close,” as if that dog should be out in public at all.

Isla should be in a muzzle when in public. Everything else should be on a leash. Both parties are wrong. Both parties are at fault. Both parties are dicks, and watching either one insist that they aren’t is laughably insane.

Idiot. The entire reason the law is in place is to protect BOTH dogs. And the fact an owner is willing to let their dog off leash in public when it is law to have it leashed means that they obviously don’t care about their own dog so how about at least have respect for others? The friendliest dog can snap back if a dog charges. And if you think “well my dog is ok to be unleashed because I trained it” it’s the same as saying “well I can drive just fine after three drinks I do it all the time”. Well guess what? Drinking and driving is illegal…why? Because you put other people in danger. Oh yes, what an ENTITLED law eh? I think you completely miss her argument and likely do so purposely. And if you hate dogs as much as you say you do WHY are you commenting on a blog about dogs? Whining about your hate for dogs is such a victim statement and makes you sound like an arrogant entitled twit yourself. Good day, sir. Your own argument is flawed.

Amen. And not to mention if you have one of those flexy leashes that are 20 feet long and you cant grab in the middle to pull back to you, you’re dog is not on a leash. Plus somebody is going to get tripped, hopefully you and not an innocent bystander or another dog. Get a real leash and learn to walk your dog.

One of the lessons that has stuck with me from a trainer is that you should never put your dog in a position to make a mistake. Protecting your dog is the only thing you have control over really. So perhaps the father of the writer of this article should put a muzzle on his dog. I salute everyone who rescues a dog and works with them and loves them. I think it’s absolutely wonderful. But at the end of the day you cannot control anyone else. And really all of us, we have to stop blaming, shaming finger-pointing at everyone else – it gets you nowhere and frankly, you sound like a ‘dick’ (author’s word, not mine). Just take care of your dog and never put it in a position to make a mistake. I see many dogs wearing muzzles in and outside of dog parks and they seem quite happy. Please have a goal to be happy and to have a happy dog. The world is full enough of haters.

You’re doing exactly what Ylva was talking about. Instead of accepting that both parties are at fault, you are shaming only one half. Both groups are wrong. Dogs should be on leashes; dangerous dogs should wear muzzles.

Ugh. I’m on vacation. I have no interest in going back and forth with you. It’s a hard line trying to write an op-ed like this. I could tell you my dad muzzles Isla (he does) but then every off leash dog owner would then say, so what’s the problem? Also, you hit the nail on the head with (one) of your other statements, having dogs on leash SHOULD be as much for other PEOPLE (dog owners or not) as it should dog safety.

Thank you for your post. I have a cardigan that although he was well-socialized and trained has issues with other dogs. We compete in agility without a problem as I manage him well at events and all dogs unless running are on leash. I used to take him for walks in a great park nearby, but the number of off leash dogs breaking the rules keeps me from going anymore. My dog does use a basket muzzle when out in our yard with our other dogs, but that is because he also suffers from transferred aggression, so if something sets him off he may turn on our other dogs. I used to use it on walks just in the neighborhood just in case we were approached, but then we actually WERE approached by a very aggressive dog breaking out of his electric fence and it dawned on my that my dog would have absolutely no way to defend himself. Although we have never, even had an incident, when an off leash dog approaches and I hear the old “don’t worry, he’s friendly” I loudly say, “MY DOG IS NOT! AND he will bite your dog!” I have had to pick my boy up and kick at dogs to get them away, yelling at the top of my lungs. I just wish people would follow the rules. I don’t go to off-leash parks but should at least be able to take my leashed dog on a walk without having to worry every minute.

Good blog. Unfortunately using CMs name is a hot-button topic because he has a very bad reputation amongst actual animal behaviorists and we’ll educated trainers . I think people are missing your point because they are so focused on his name. Your point is a good one. I will say that my dogs are not dog aggressive however when they are on leash they have no escape and should an unleashed dog come running up into their faces my dogs will react and not in a nice way. Off-leash in a big field my dogs might eventually play with that same dog but they are well-socialized dogs and they do not take kindly to Rude Behavior by dogs they don’t know. Rude Behavior consists of a strange dog running up into my dog’s personal space, especially their faces. I absolutely abhor when people walk their dogs off leash around leashed dogs. It is a fight waiting to happen! I also never attend dog parks because most of the people who go there with their dogs have no clue about canine body language and bring dogs that shouldn’t be at an off-leash Park in the first place. Those places also are a disaster waiting to happen :-(.

Thank you. Like your father I live with and love “one of those dogs”. I have also been on the other end….the one with the “friendly” dog.
Your writing speaks for and to so many of us who have such a difficult time being understood.
You hit the nail of the head of our sweet but reactive dogs….many thanks for being such a clear voice.

Why does your Dad insist on taking a highly aggressive dog to a downtown core which DOES have crowded sidewalks? Even other leashed dogs can be at risk for your Dad’s dog’s aggression. I love all dogs but aggressive dogs have NO PLACE being on narrow busy streets full of other dogs and people. The people with unleashed dogs are idiots…but your Dad is putting everyone at risk of his dog lunging at other dogs and people who are not doing anything wrong…except for being on the same sidewalk!!!!

Well, he lives there, so there’s that. While this technically IS about my dad, it also isn’t. I’ve completely avoided talking about whether she’s muzzled because I don’t think it’s relevant and provides an excuse for the off leashers.

Not that people would actually do this but it might not be a bad idea to get a vest for the dog. The ones that say dog in training or something. Maybe a visual aid will help get the point across that you don’t want to be bothered. In cases of people who claim ” they’re friendly” anyway. Respect the vest.
That’s what you do with horses anyway. In situations where there are a lot of horses unfamiliar with each other you braid ribbons into their tails to relay a message. Red mean that horse will kick and you should give it wide birth, green for a young or inexperienced horse who may be unpredictable, etc. This is used for hunts and group trail rides a lot.

Here’s the bottom line for me. Dogs are social creatures and they love us unconditionally. Training them with harsh, painful and “dominant” methods is cruel. If you want to watch an excellent trainer who uses R+ (positive reinforcement) – check out Victoria Stillwell or Ian Dunbar. Stillwell has a TV show and tons of Youtube videos. The bottom line is, there is absolutely NO science behind his training and for those interested there are copious amounts of science and research behind Positive reinforcement training. Why train a dog with pain and fear when there are better, more humane ways to train? When dogs are fearful, they shut down and the problem behavior is repressed, NOT corrected or changed. Millan has brought dog training back into the dark ages and set forth so many unwitting owners on a path to damage and cause pain to their dogs. There are alternatives, so check them out – they work, too and will give you long term results. It takes much longer in many instances to work a behavior modification program using positive training and many people are want instant results, hence his appeal.

We have three rescue Labradors, one of whom was attacked by a Boxer when they were in an off leash area. Ever since, that dog has hated other dogs and will go on the offensive. That is why we NEVER let her off leash, unless we’re on the beach in winter when there’s no-one else within sight (the beach is straight and you can see at least a mile). She has both a lead and a dog coat in orange that have “NO DOGS” in large black capital letters. And yet, when we go to a nearby country park to let the other two off the leash, people ignore the glaringly obvious sign to keep their dog away from her and then get funny with us when we ask them to get their dog away from ours because she might react badly to the stranger.

Very well said! My thoughts exactly. As a close friend of mine likes to say, “These jerks are so entitled! They all feel the need for their “born free” moment then blame you when their irresponsibility created the problem.”

There are 7 BILLION of us! “Born Free” is gone.

And by the way, pits from working lines don’t necessarily “rehab.” What’s in their past that makes them dog aggressive is their breeding lines. They’re just expressing what they’ve been intended for… so you manage them as it sounds like your dad is doing wonderfully.

Thanks for pointing out that the “Born Free” people are NOT the good guys! 🙂

Why are people always looking “to blame” someone else. Keep control of your own dog and don’t worry about what others are doing. We need to remember to “stay in our own lane”. You will never change those people you are talking about!!!
Getting upset and causing a public disturbance is a waste of tax payer$$$ and time that our police could spend tending to more important things rather than 2 people fighting because one person feels self righteous!!
I have had many different “protection breeds” and had a few “issues” in public with ignorant people but my dogs are always leashed!!!
Remember, blaming a breed is a cop out, it’s the idiot at the end of the leash that’s tge problem ;). Just my 2 cents!

Thank you for your help in my fight against animal abusers & worse, potential murderers, if you count the off leash dogs that have killed people, either directly or indirectly as they were trying to rescue them from the highway and got hit & killed by a car. How about the poor souls, obeying the speed limit and hitting a dog and having to deal with the PTSD that a dog lover might suffer from such an “accident.” It’s a shame you brought the controversial César Milan into it, though maybe it was on purpose & smart, in order to get more readers. I’m in the U.S. and it’s such a huge problem here, even perpetrated by so called professional dog trainers who like to show off, and even those in animal rescue. “My dog would never bolt!” AHHHH, as if dogs were robots. 998 times out of 1000 they may be fine, but one day they will see a squirrel, forget how perfect they are and take off. Peace 🙂

Thanks for writing this. I live in the West End also. And the off-leash / entitled-owner issue is an epidemic now. In my 5-6 years here, I have never seen the situation so bad.

These owners yell, “He/she is friendly!!!” …and it’s the biggest insult. Especially to someone who has had to re-habilitate her dog, because of an off-leash dog bite in a local pet store last year.

Most of these off-leash dogs have little or no recall. So when I yell, “Leash your dog or stay away” there’s not much impact. To add insult to injury, about 1/3 of these owners aren’t carrying leashes. I always check when they’re approaching.

Sometimes the off-leash dogs charge. (Who am I kidding, it’s most of the time). There isn’t always time to get away. When it doesn’t work out, and they pick a fight with my on-leash dog, the owner’s response sucks as much as their leash compliance.

About a month ago, a long-haired chihuaua near the Stanley Park tennis courts bolted from it’s owners and went for my dog, a 37lb wheaten terrier. The owners barely moved an inch and this dog was insistent. So I kicked it as hard as I could in the ribs. That is 15 years of league soccer and many months of frustration …the owners didn’t even ask if my dog was OK.

I read your article today and wrote to Animal Control, asking what I can do. My dog is one of their rescues. Here’s hoping that they have some ideas. Because taking a walk down the sidewalk in the West End is no longer relaxing. Especially at night. My dog gets approached and attacked by an off-leash dog about every 2 weeks. So far it’s been small dogs. But I know that’s just luck. My foot is no match for a 50lb+ dog once it’s decided to go after my dog. It’s just a matter of time.

If your dad ever sees me walking my happy-go-lucky wheaten, I hope that he waves “hi”. And even if we can’t stop and talk, I greatly appreciate what he’s done, and his dedication to helping his dog. I would also encourage him to email animal control as well. The more of us that do, the more power we have to change the status quo (animalcontrol@vancouver.ca).

Oh look, a troll has come over :-/ John, how about you shut your mouth, stop insulting someone who is making a very valid point about irresponsible dog owners who are breaking the law and go crawl back under your rock!

I bet he’s one of the idiot morons that illegally walks his dogs off leash!

THANK YOU!
It doesn’t take a dog with any sort of adverse behavior to become aggressive when leashed and approached by an unleashed dog. Either one of my dogs will immediately become defensive and downright aggressive if an unleashed dog runs up on them because that is their only safeguard. When a dog is leashed, the “flight” has been taken out of their options of fight or flight. If my dogs are unleashed, they love other dogs. If my dogs are leashed and the other dogs are leashed, they love those dogs too. It’s not rocket science.

How about all you dog lovers trying to rehabilitate wild and violent animals into public domain go live out in the woods. I see pit bulls escape all the time wandering around looking for targets. Your dad is not a saint, he’s a fool with a liability. Pitbulls are not worth one human life and should be outlawed, so should owners who take their friendly dogs off leash and allow them to run around humans and knock them off bikes in bike lanes etc. Animals belong in the wild, not in our cities where the “caring” dog owners let them shit everywhere and leave it.

I HAVE had my dogs (pits as everyone knows) since pups, they are trained (but don’t always listen) and I’ve never once taken them to a dog park (wouldn’t dare) – they don’t go outside off leash, except for the very rare 5 minutes I’ll take them out in my front yard to pee around it and mark it as theirs… which also acquaints them should they ever actually “get out” they will know where to go (my front porch, and yes… this is something that happened recently – someone forced my side gate open, the one with the BEWARE OF DOG SIGN ON IT, and Ginger got out, my neighbor called – luckily I was right here at home!! – and there was Ginger, on the porch, concentrating so hard on the front door just willing it to open for her, shaking like a leaf! Mind you the gate was still open, but she didnt think of that LOL
My dogs are never out other than those rare few minutes, late at night when I’m there and have checked to make sure no one, and no animals are around, off leash. It’s more for their protection than anything, because I LOVE them – if some random little Chi-mix comes up and starts in on them, My Hope is that they ignore them, like my Copper always did, (He was more human than dog) but that’s not realistic – they’ve been brutally attacked in the past, so I can’t blame them if they decide to defend themselves (or me) – dogs have no sense of size, that much is obvious – but should we end up in court over someone’s *off leash dog* coming up to say HI or sniff my dogs or attack my dogs, you can be SURE I WILL WIN, my dogs will not be put down because “yours is friendly” or “trained”… my dogs will be on leash, and under my control up and until the moment they need to defend themselves… Yours should be too.

THANK YOU! Our dog is nice, but like Ilsa in that he doesn’t always like other dogs. I came across a women that couldn’t control her dog and it was off leash. When the dog started to come towards us and I worked to move my dog away to keep them separated, she yelled “Oh she’s friendly.” I responded, “That’s great, but mine isn’t. He doesn’t like dogs off leash so can you come get yours before mine is put down.” She ran over and was apologetic, Her husband also got short with her and told her to put the leash on. I have no problem scaring people that let their dogs off leash, because I know my American Bulldog would be the one to go down if something happens to your “sweet” golden retriever.

the first Pit Bull I ever owned when I was 21 used to have to be muzzled when I walked her. She was fine with dogs she had known since she or it was a puppy but out on the street she was a snarling Tazmanian Devil and while I had her leashed and muzzled there was one guy in the neighbourhood that never leashed his dog and would get mad at me when I would ask him to keep his dog away from mine…not that the dog listened but more than once I’d have to put myself between my dog and his so I get it and feel the same way.

I worked for a Humane Society for the last six years until I retired. I get so tired of pitties getting such a bad rap. I’ve seen aggressive dogs of all breeds. It’s definitely about the way they are raised and trained. I’ve met some pretty nasty chihuahuas. Get a grip people! I’ve known quite a few loving and very friendly pitties.

Thank you! This is amazing! you are absolutely right and everyday on a walk in a struggle to make sure a dog doesn’t come running up to her. ” mines friendly” … I hate when people say that, it doesn’t mean all are.

Thank you so much for stating what I have been thinking. When I’m walking my dogs, I am constantly looking around for other dogs that are not leashed. It amazes me that even though there are signs posting all dogs must be on a leash, so many people think it is o.k. that theirs aren’t. Why don’t they stick to the off leash parks. We have been attacked 4 times by unleashed dogs, and afterwards, the owners have all said “they’re friendly, they just wanna play”.

I get that alot. when they say their dog is friendly and just wants to play, thats about the time my dane starts growling. I politely tell them she isn’t friendly to dogs and she won’t be playing..she’ll be eating. They tend to move quick to save their dogs at that point. I keep a good hold on her and she is leash trained but she will protect herself. I hate when people assume that because their dog is nice and friendly that means all dogs are.

Wow people you guys need to learn how to not react, this exactly what what fuels the negativity in the world. Keep your opinions whatever they may be negative or positive to yourself and use that energy to shift the situation that works with keeping things flowing. Yes there is dicks in the world, nothing you say can change them, so why bother…. So instead coming off as a whining baby, complaining about someone, something, somewhere, don’t react just act and plant the seed of change in doing. Change the way you handle a situation and stop the out out of negative energy. Nuetralize the bad energy and remain nuetral don’t feed the negative energy entities. You’ll be surprised how your pets will pick up on this, they will. And you will see. So stop talking, stop thinking, quiet the mind and just breath and Be in the now. Those who have awakened or on the path will now what I mean.

“Keep your opinions whatever they may be negative or positive to yourself and use that energy to shift the situation that works with keeping things flowing. Yes there is dicks in the world, nothing you say can change them, so why bother…” disagree. Sharing opinions and logic while beyond many people’s very immature comprehension, is important. Believing that nothing can be done about it is a weak stand point and you are part of the problem. All it takes is for a few good people to do nothing as they say…

So….the dog is aggressive?….well I guess we just ‘wait’ until he/she rips someone’s arm apart, attacks someone then we react? It’s sad for the dog that it had a bad experience but seriously…the dog is aggressive, bottom line….

Well, this is quite the party thread! You know you’ve made it when the trolls clamber up from under their bridges and hop on board 😉
Love your writing, love the font…..
In the words of someone who I think should be on a leash, and muzzled for that matter, “haters gonna hate”.

I need to vent somewhere about this and I thought of this thread instantly – I was walking home from work last night in Boston, and was cutting through a small parking lot right off of Mass Ave, which is an incredibly busy street. I passed by a woman on her phone, and her small dog who I didn’t really pay much attention to. I continued walking, and suddenly heard the woman yelling for her dog to come back. Coming towards me was a differently abled man in a motorized chair, with a service dog on leash walking next to him. The woman’s dog was heading straight for the man and his dog– and unfortunately it wasn’t to say hi. Her dog started to bite his small service dog (do I even need to clarify that the woman’s dog was off-leash…) This poor gentleman was trying to maneuver his chair away from her dog, helpless to protect his own. The woman was of course yelling trying to call her dog back to her, and her dog was not listening. The man (who it seemed to me wasn’t really able to speak that well) told her to keep her dog on a leash– and she sassed him saying “oh ok sir whatever you say.” I couldn’t believe 1) that this incident happened in the first place. Why was this dog off-leash next to such a busy street (or in the city in general) and 2) she wasn’t even apologizing for the fact that her dog just attacked a service dog!!! Luckily everyone seemed to walk away unharmed. I walked away fuming that there wasn’t more I could do, and that I didn’t do more. It happened so fast- I’m wishing now that police could have been called and this woman could have been issued a citation and fined. I see so many dogs off-leash in Boston and it doesn’t seem like the law is being enforced. Thank god that no one was hurt.

Thank you for writing this! I had a husky who was attacked by 4 different dogs, all bigger than her, at 4 different times, all of them off-leash. One was a female boxer that flattened her like a linebacker, and I know you’re not supposed to do this, but I had to get in the middle of that one, along with a few fabulous neighbors with brooms and a hose, to get that monster off of her. She wasn’t even a year old. After that, she could not tolerate any dog larger than her, and when a loose dog would come running up, and someone would say “oh, don’t worry, (s)he’s friendly”. I’d say, “mine’s not, you better get over here and get your dog”. Too late, my girl would have that dog by the face. Can’t say I didn’t warn you. Leash your dogs, people!

This is beautiful. I have a four year old Great Dane Lab who is well behaved and completely leash trained. She also responds to most commands off leash. But that said…I never take her out and let her free. She does not get along with all dogs. Particularly huskies. Not sure why. She loves people though and absolutely adores children and cats. It never fails though that when I take my 150 lbs of fluff to the jogging trail near the house, someone’s dog is roaming loose or has an extra long leash. When she gets aggressive and starts to bark, I make her sit but their dog is still just doing what it wants. But its my fault that she’s acting like that. I should have trained her better. Not all dogs get along with others. Some have dislikes and some are just grumpy. These are things dog owners should accept and remember. My dog isn’t misbehaving, she’s reacting to your dog’s unwelcome nearness. I’m not being crazy when I tell you to back your dog off or choke up its leash, Im concerned for my dog and yours. She is a lot of dog and can do severe damage if threatened. So when you see a dog that starts to exhibit signs of hostility toward your dog, take a second.,.call your dog close and walk by calmly. Understand that dogs have personalities and ticks just as humans do and that we should respect their space. Each dog is different and each dog parent should acknowledge this and respond accordingly.

High fives to you! I *juuuust* posted the most polite tirade I could manage on a Vancouver-based dog park FB group talking about this very thing after three “well-behaved” off-leash dogs approached my reactive on-leash dog… in an on-leash area I might add. I feel for your dad. I know exactly what he’s going through. It sucks when you are doing the best you can and minding your own business and others undermine your efforts. It seems to happen weekly. :/

Thank you. We are older 65 and 68 and rescued an Anatolian shepherd who started out fine but developed some dog aggressive behaviors that have worsened as she looses her sight (another long story) . A few years ago she attacked a dog in a (previously) neutral area where they were both off leash. Many $$$ and nervewracking walks later I have come to a peace. I walk her always on leash, work (like your dad) to avoid negative situations, and always have her under good control. She is a big dog and if she ever injured another animal not only would that animal be hurt but she would probably be put down. She loves heer dog friends, all children, most people but I don’t trust the weird part of her brain that kicks in periodically. I feel that we owners of reactive dogs are doing great work. I linked to your blog and like it.
Thanks

Thank you!! Couldn’t have said it better myself. I have two rescue dogs who are both very leash reactive. I encounter off-leash dogs daily on our walks. Its a law to have your dogs leashed in our city, but there are always dogs running thru the park without a leash, and their owners far behind. I’ve started to carry a spray to deter dogs, treats, and unfortunately have gotten into some very heated exchanges with clueless owners. With all of the off-leash dog park options out there – this shouldn’t even be an issue.

YES!!
I have a brand new happy, friendly new puppy who is trying to navigate the Vancouver dog scene. Because he is a young dog he is always on-leash. He has no recall yet. We avoid dog parks like the plague because there are oblivious dog owners there who are more interested in lattes and conversation that what their off-leash dogs are doing and because most of them think their dog’s boisterous jump on the other dog is “play” even when their dog has the other dog is pinned to the ground and curled in a fetal position with their tail glued to their belly. They give you the dumb, stupid look if you object and try to rescue your pup. If their dog was on the receiving end of this sort of behavior they would be fighting mad. Because it isn’t their dog being traumatized they are perfectly okay with the chain of events.

Cesar Milan’s show is TV and meant to be riveting and entertaining. People who think he can “train” or “remediate” a dog’s behavior in a 60 minute show are delusional. His methods are way to harsh and make some dogs very dangerous if they aren’t completely emotionally destroyed. I’ve spoken with several professionally trainers who have had to re-train dogs who have been “Cesered” and it was a difficult process leaving a dog who must be closely supervised for life due to their sensitivities where they might cause harm to other dogs or people.

I avoid dog parks and quickly cross the street when I see off-leash or flexi-leashed dogs – especially when their handlers say “oh my dog is friendly”! My pup is way to important to me to take chances with the potential for possible harm at his tender age!

Given that Cesar Milan is not a trainer, knows little about behavior, and is a fraud overall, I’d have to agree – No, I am not Cesar Milan. All these people complaining about dogs being off-leash wouldn’t fair will in a country where dogs roam free, or even on a reserve for that matter. Sometimes you need to remember this planet is inhabited by other species, not just the precious human with your oversensitive feelings.

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